Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

A 10-item self-report scale designed to screen for postnatal depression in women during the postpartum period. Items 3, 5-10 are reverse-scored.

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

2. I have looked forward with enjoyment to things

3. I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong

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

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

6. Many things have been getting on top of me

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

8. I have felt sad or miserable

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

10. The thought of harming myself has occurred to me

Note: Reverse-scored items: 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. The scale is validated for postpartum women but has been used antenatally and with fathers in some settings.

⚠️ Self-Harm Alert

Item 10 asks about thoughts of self-harm. Any score >0 on this item requires immediate evaluation for suicidality, regardless of total EPDS score.

Scoring Table

Parameter	Points
Normal Items	option1: 0 points option2: 1 points option3: 2 points option4: 3 points
Reverse Items	option1: 3 points option2: 2 points option3: 1 points option4: 0 points

Interpretation

Category	Score Range	Action
● Low risk / Short-lived distress	0-9	Unlikely to have postnatal depression; monitor and provide reassurance.
● Possible depression	10-12	Possible postnatal depression; consider further clinical assessment and support.
● Likely depression	13-30	Probable postnatal depression; refer for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment.

References

Detection of postnatal depression. Development of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. British Journal of Psychiatry (1987). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3658622/
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Black Dog Institute (2020). https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/edinburgh-postnatal-depression-scale.pdf

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

EPDS is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument.
Any positive response to item 10 requires immediate clinical attention.
Postnatal depression can occur up to 12 months after delivery; screen at appropriate intervals.

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

Scoring Table

Interpretation

References

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