Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
Complete the EPDS, the gold standard screening tool for perinatal depression. Score ≥10 suggests possible depression; ≥13 indicates likely depression. Question 10 specifically screens for self-harm thoughts. Used worldwide in 50+ languages.
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Q10 screens self-harm Validated pregnancy and postpartum 50+ languages worldwide
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Why: Perinatal depression affects 1 in 7 mothers. Early screening improves outcomes.
How: Each question 0-3, past 7 days. Total 0-30. Q10 = self-harm screen.
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Assessment Settings
EPDS Questions
Select the answer closest to how you have felt IN THE PAST 7 DAYS.
For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before acting on results.
🏥 Health Facts
EPDS: 10 questions, 0-30 score, Q10 self-harm
— Br J Psychiatry 1987
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is the gold standard screening tool for perinatal depression. Score ≥10 suggests possible depression; ≥13 indicates likely depression. Question 10 specifically screens for self-harm thoughts. Used worldwide in 50+ languages.
Key Takeaways
- • EPDS screens for perinatal depression during pregnancy and up to 1 year postpartum
- • Question 10: Any positive response = immediate safety assessment
- • Score ≥10: Retest in 2-4 weeks or clinical evaluation
- • Score ≥13: Clinical evaluation recommended
Did You Know?
How Does EPDS Work?
Scoring
Each question 0-3 based on past 7 days. Some questions reverse-scored.
Postpartum Thresholds
0-8 Low risk, 9-10 Possible, 11-13 Probable, 14+ High risk.
Question 10
Any positive response (1-3) to self-harm question requires immediate safety assessment regardless of total score.
Expert Tips
Score Interpretation
| Score | Level | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 0-8 | Low risk | Routine care |
| 9-10 | Possible | Retest 2-4 weeks |
| 11-13 | Probable | Clinical evaluation |
| 14+ | High risk | Immediate evaluation |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EPDS?
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a 10-item validated screening tool for perinatal depression during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. Used in 50+ languages worldwide.
What do EPDS scores mean?
0-8: Low risk. 9-10: Possible depression, retest in 2-4 weeks. 11-13: Probable depression, clinical evaluation. 14+: High risk, immediate evaluation.
Why is Question 10 important?
Question 10 screens for self-harm thoughts. Any positive response requires immediate safety assessment regardless of total score.
Can I use EPDS during pregnancy?
Yes. The EPDS is validated for both antenatal and postnatal use. Thresholds may differ slightly for pregnancy.
Is the EPDS a diagnosis?
No. The EPDS is a screening tool. Positive scores indicate need for clinical evaluation, not a diagnosis of depression.
How long does the EPDS take?
About 5 minutes. Each of the 10 questions is scored 0-3 based on the past 7 days.
Key Statistics
Official Data Sources
⚠️ Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, seek help immediately: Postpartum Support International: 1-800-944-4773 | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) | Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
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