What is the EPDS?
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a 10-item questionnaire. It screens for depression in pregnancy and after birth.
It was developed by Cox, Holden and Sagovsky in 1987. It is widely used by GPs, midwives and health visitors across the UK.
The woman answers about the past 7 days. It takes under five minutes.
EPDS scoring
- Each item scores 0 to 3. The maximum is 30.
- Items 3 and 5 to 10 are reverse scored. This tool handles that for you.
- Item 10 asks about thoughts of self-harm. Any score above 0 needs action.
EPDS score interpretation
| Score | Meaning | Suggested action |
|---|---|---|
| 0–9 | Below threshold | Usual care. Repeat if concerns persist. |
| 10–12 | Possible depression | Clinical assessment. Repeat in 2 to 4 weeks. |
| 13 or more | Probable depression | Full assessment and treatment plan. |
| Item 10 above 0 | Self-harm thoughts | Same-day risk assessment. |
Thresholds vary between services. Follow your local perinatal mental health pathway.
Using the EPDS well
- It is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.
- NICE CG192 suggests the Whooley questions first, then EPDS or PHQ-9.
- Ask about anxiety, as the EPDS covers it only partly.
- Use translated versions where needed.
- Consider partners too. The EPDS has been used in fathers.