The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale screens for postpartum depression during the first year after delivery. Screening tool — not a diagnosis.
In the past 7 days:
The EPDS screens for postpartum depression — which affects approximately 1 in 7 mothers (ACOG). Scores: 0-8 unlikely PPD, 9-11 possible, 12-13 high possibility, 14+ probable. Any positive response to the self-harm question (Q10) warrants immediate provider contact regardless of total score.
Written by Ash K · Last updated: June 2026 · Sources cited below
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a validated 10-question screening tool developed by Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky (1987) and used worldwide in clinical settings. It screens for postpartum depression and related mood disorders during the first year after delivery.
This is a screening instrument — not a diagnostic tool. A high score indicates that further evaluation by a healthcare provider is recommended. The EPDS exists in the public domain and is freely available.
The EPDS measures depressed mood, anxiety, anhedonia (inability to experience pleasure), guilt, difficulty coping, sleep disturbance, sadness, crying, and thoughts of self-harm. These symptoms characterize postpartum depression — a condition fundamentally different from "baby blues."
Key Takeaway: Baby blues affect 50–80% of new mothers, appear 2–5 days after delivery, and resolve within 2 weeks without treatment. Postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 7 mothers according to ACOG, persists beyond 2 weeks, causes significant functional impairment, and requires professional treatment. The EPDS helps distinguish between the two.
Answer each question based on how you've felt over the past 7 days. Be honest — there are no right answers, and accurate responses enable meaningful assessment. The screening takes approximately 5 minutes.
Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression: Key Differences
| Score | Interpretation | Recommended action |
|---|---|---|
| 0–8 | Not likely PPD | Routine follow-up at next postpartum visit |
| 9–11 | Possible PPD | Schedule appointment with provider for assessment |
| 12–13 | High possibility PPD | Prompt evaluation with mental health provider recommended |
| 14+ | Probable PPD | Timely professional assessment is generally recommended |
Warning: Question 10 asks about thoughts of self-harm. Any positive response to this question warrants immediate contact with a healthcare provider, regardless of total score. You do not need to reach a specific score threshold to deserve help.
Research suggests EPDS scores of 10 or higher demonstrate 87–100% sensitivity for identifying major depression in postpartum women. These thresholds were established through multiple validation studies across diverse populations.
EPDS Score Interpretation (Cox et al. 1987 Validation)
The confusion between baby blues and PPD prevents many mothers from seeking help — they assume what they're experiencing is "normal" and will pass on its own.
Baby blues appear 2–5 days postpartum, peak around day 10, and resolve within 2 weeks. Symptoms include mood swings, tearfulness, irritability, and mild anxiety. They're driven by the dramatic hormonal shifts following delivery and don't require treatment.
Postpartum depression can develop any time in the first year (though most commonly in the first 1–3 months). It persists beyond 2 weeks, worsens rather than improves, and causes significant difficulty with daily functioning and infant care.
Note: PPD is a medical condition — not a personal failing. According to ACOG, 1 in 7 new mothers experience PPD. Risk factors identified in research include history of depression or anxiety, lack of social support, sleep deprivation, traumatic birth experience, and hormonal changes. It is fully treatable with therapy, medication, or both.
Postpartum Depression — Key Facts (per ACOG/Published Research)
The EPDS applies to anyone within the first 12 months postpartum. Women at elevated risk particularly benefit from screening:
Previous history of depression or anxiety. Depression or anxiety during pregnancy. Traumatic delivery experience. Lack of adequate social support. Recent major life stressors (financial difficulty, relationship problems, loss). History of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Unplanned or ambivalent pregnancy.
ACOG recommends universal postpartum depression screening at least once during the perinatal period, using a validated tool like the EPDS.
PPD is treatable. Most women improve significantly with appropriate intervention.
Therapy — particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) — has strong evidence for PPD treatment. Therapy addresses negative thought patterns, builds coping strategies, and improves interpersonal functioning.
Medication — SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine) are commonly prescribed for PPD. If you're breastfeeding, discuss medication safety with your provider — several SSRIs are considered compatible with breastfeeding according to published safety data.
Support groups — peer support from other mothers experiencing PPD can reduce isolation and normalize the experience.
Practical support — help with childcare, household tasks, and sleep from partners, family, or hired help directly addresses the functional burden that worsens PPD.
Tip: You don't need to wait for a specific score to seek help. If you feel something is wrong — if motherhood feels overwhelmingly joyless, if you can't bond with your baby, if you're experiencing intrusive thoughts — reach out to your OB, midwife, or a mental health professional. Early intervention improves outcomes.
If you're having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please reach out immediately:
Postpartum Support International Helpline: 1-800-944-4773 (call or text). Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988.
These are confidential resources with trained counselors available 24/7.
Bottom Line: The EPDS is a validated screening tool that helps identify whether what you're experiencing may be postpartum depression rather than typical baby blues. A score of 9+ warrants professional evaluation. PPD is common, treatable, and not your fault. Early screening leads to earlier treatment, which leads to better outcomes for both you and your baby.
What is the EPDS postpartum depression screening?
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a 10-question validated screening tool specifically designed for postpartum mood disorders. Developed by Cox et al. (1987), it's the most widely used postpartum depression screening instrument worldwide.
What is EPDS? What does EPDS stand for?
EPDS stands for Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. "Edinburgh" refers to the University of Edinburgh where it was developed. "Postnatal" and "postpartum" are interchangeable terms.
What score indicates postpartum depression?
EPDS scores of 10+ demonstrate 87–100% sensitivity for major depression. Scores of 0–8 suggest PPD is unlikely, 9–11 indicate possible PPD, 12–13 high possibility, and 14+ probable PPD. However, these are screening thresholds — clinical diagnosis requires professional evaluation.
Can fathers get postpartum depression?
Yes. Research identifies paternal postpartum depression in approximately 8–10% of new fathers. While the EPDS was developed for mothers, modified versions have been validated for paternal screening. If you're a new father experiencing persistent low mood, anxiety, or difficulty bonding, speak with your provider.
When should I take this screening?
ACOG recommends screening at least once during the perinatal period. Many providers screen at the 6-week postpartum visit. However, PPD can develop any time in the first year — take this screening whenever you're concerned about your mood.
This screening tool does not diagnose postpartum depression or any other condition. If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please contact a crisis helpline or seek emergency care immediately.
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This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with questions about your health.