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Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

As you are having a baby or recently had a baby, we would like to know how you have been feeling. Please choose the answer that comes closest to how you felt in the **past 7 days**—not just today. This is a screening tool, not a clinical diagnosis.

1. I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things:

As much as I always could Not quite so much now Definitely not so much now Not at all

2. I have looked forward with enjoyment to things:

As much as I ever did Rather less than I used to Definitely less than I used to Hardly at all

3. I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong:

Yes, almost all the time Yes, very often Not very often No, never

4. I have been anxious or worried for no good reason:

No, not at all Hardly ever Yes, sometimes Yes, very often

5. I have felt scared or panicky for no very good reason:

No, not at all No, not much Yes, sometimes Yes, quite a lot

6. Things have been getting on top of me:

Yes, most of the time I haven't been able to cope Yes, sometimes I haven't been coping well No, most of the time I have coped well No, I have been coping as well as ever

7. I have been so unhappy that I have had difficulty sleeping:

Yes, most of the time Yes, sometimes Not very often No, not at all

8. I have felt sad or miserable:

Yes, most of the time Yes, quite often Not very often No, not at all

9. I have been so unhappy that I have been crying:

Yes, most of the time Yes, quite often Only occasionally No, never

10. The thought of harming myself has occurred to me:

Yes, quite often Sometimes Hardly ever Never

Your Result

0/30

⚠️ URGENT: You indicated thoughts of self-harm. Please contact a healthcare professional, a local emergency room, or a crisis hotline immediately.

*Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.*

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Comprehensive Guide to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

The transition into parenthood is one of the most significant life changes a person can experience. While often portrayed as a time of pure joy, the reality involves massive hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was developed in 1987 to help healthcare providers identify women who may be experiencing postpartum depression, a condition that affects approximately 1 in 7 new mothers.

What is the EPDS?

The EPDS is a 10-item self-report questionnaire. Unlike other depression scales, it specifically excludes physical symptoms that are common in new parents (like exhaustion or appetite changes) and focuses on emotional and cognitive symptoms such as anxiety, guilt, and low mood. This makes it a highly effective screening tool for the "Postpartum" period, which technically covers the first year after childbirth.

How to Interpret Your Score

Scoring the EPDS requires attention to detail because some questions are scored forwards (0 to 3) while others are scored backwards (3 to 0). The maximum total score is 30.

• 0–9: Low Likelihood. Most new parents fall into this range. It suggests you are coping relatively well with the changes.
• 10–12: Possible Mild Depression. This is a "yellow flag" zone. You may be experiencing "Baby Blues" or the start of mild depression. Monitoring and social support are recommended.
• 13 and above: High Likelihood. This score suggests a significant risk of moderate to severe depression. It is highly recommended to speak with a doctor or midwife.

The Importance of Question 10

Question 10 specifically asks about thoughts of self-harm. Regardless of the total score, if a parent scores 1, 2, or 3 on this specific question, clinical guidelines dictate immediate follow-up. Mental health is just as critical as physical health during the postpartum period.

Steps to Take After Scoring

If your score indicates a risk of depression, remember that you are not alone and this is not your fault. Postpartum depression is a medical condition caused by chemical changes in the brain. Treatment options include talk therapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), support groups, and, in some cases, medication that is safe for breastfeeding mothers. The first step is always communication—share your results with a trusted provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I take this test if I am still pregnant?

Yes. The EPDS is also validated for use during pregnancy to detect antenatal depression.

How often should I use this calculator?

Many healthcare providers recommend screening at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months postpartum. If you feel your mood shifting, you can use it anytime.

Is "Baby Blues" the same as Postpartum Depression?

No. Baby Blues usually occurs 3-5 days after birth and resolves within two weeks. Postpartum depression is more severe and lasts longer.

Can fathers or partners use this scale?

While designed for mothers, research shows the EPDS is also effective at screening for paternal postnatal depression.

Does a high score mean I am a bad parent?

Absolutely not. A high score indicates you are struggling with a health condition that needs support, similar to having a physical injury.

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