Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a 10-item self-report questionnaire used to screen for symptoms of postnatal depression in new mothers. It helps healthcare professionals identify emotional and psychological distress that may develop after childbirth. Each item is scored on a scale of 0 to 3, reflecting how the mother has felt during the previous seven days.

A normal EPDS score typically ranges from 0 to 9, suggesting no or minimal signs of depression. Scores between 10 and 12 indicate possible mild depression and warrant further observation. A score of 13 or higher suggests a high likelihood of postpartum depression and should prompt a comprehensive clinical assessment.

The EPDS measures the intensity of depressive symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, guilt, and sleep or appetite changes in postpartum individuals. It focuses on emotional and cognitive symptoms rather than physical ones, making it suitable for distinguishing depression from normal postnatal fatigue. Its main goal is early detection to enable timely intervention and support for maternal mental health.