Overview
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a widely used, evidence-based screening tool designed to identify symptoms of depression during the perinatal period, including pregnancy and the postnatal phase.
Developed specifically for use with perinatal populations, the EPDS focuses on emotional and cognitive symptoms rather than physical symptoms that may overlap with normal pregnancy or postpartum experiences.
It is trusted globally in clinical, community, and public health settings.
What Does EPDS Measure?
The EPDS assesses emotional wellbeing and depressive symptoms experienced over the past 7 days.
- Key areas assessed include:
- Low mood and sadness
- Loss of enjoyment or interest
- Anxiety and worry
- Feelings of guilt or self-blame
- Feelings of being overwhelmed
- Sleep disturbance related to mood
- Thoughts of self-harm
The scale is designed to be sensitive to early signs of perinatal depression, enabling timely intervention.
Who Is EPDS For?
EPDS is appropriate for:
- Pregnant individuals (antenatal use)
- Postpartum individuals (postnatal use)
It is commonly used by:
- Psychologists and therapists
- Psychiatrists
- Obstetric and gynecology providers
- Midwives and nurses
- Primary care clinicians
- Perinatal mental health programs
How EPDS Is Scored
EPDS consists of 10 self-report items, each scored on a 4-point scale (0–3).
Total Score Range
- Minimum score: 0
- Minimum score: 30
Some items are reverse-scored to ensure accuracy.
How EPDS Is Used
The EPDS can be administered at multiple points across the perinatal journey.
Common use cases include:
- Routine screening during pregnancy
- Postpartum mental health screening
- Monitoring symptom change over time
- Supporting clinical decision-making
- Evaluating treatment outcomes
It is often used:
- During antenatal visits
- At postpartum check-ups
- At regular intervals during perinatal care
Interpreting EPDS Scores
While cut-off scores may vary by clinical setting, general guidance includes:
- 0–9: Minimal or no depressive symptoms
- 10–12: Possible depression (monitor closely)
- 13 or above: Probable depressive disorder
Any positive response to the self-harm item should be followed up immediately with clinical assessment.
Using EPDS on Our Platform
When delivered through our platform, EPDS helps clinicians:
- Screen perinatal clients efficiently
- Track emotional wellbeing across pregnancy and postpartum
- Identify risk early and respond proactively
- Visualize symptom trends over time
- Integrate perinatal data with other outcome measures
This supports early detection, continuity of care, and safer clinical decision-making.
Clinical Considerations
- The EPDS is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument
- Scores should always be interpreted within clinical context
- Cultural factors and language considerations may influence responses
- Immediate follow-up is essential if self-harm risk is indicated
Cox, J. L., Holden, J. M., & Sagovsky, R. (1987).
Detection of postnatal depression: Development of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale.
British Journal of Psychiatry, 150, 782–786.
It screens for depression and emotional distress during pregnancy and postpartum.
Yes. Several items reflect anxiety-related symptoms.
It is self-administered by pregnant or postpartum individuals.
No. It identifies risk and need for further assessment.
During pregnancy, postpartum check-ins, and follow-ups.
Yes, when paired with appropriate clinical follow-up.
Explore additional tools for anxiety, trauma, substance use, and child mental health.