Obstetrics and gynaecology
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale
Screening for postnatal depression in the first year.
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale calculator
Result
0/30
Score < 10 — low probability
How to use it
- 1
Self-reported or clinician-administered. Covers last 7 days. Can be completed in waiting room.
- 2
Threshold ≥10 = probable PND. Sensitivity ~86%, specificity ~78% for major depression.
- 3
Q10 is critical. Any score > 0 on Q10 (self-harm): immediate risk assessment regardless of total score.
When to use it
- 6–8 week postnatal check
- NICE NG192: EPDS recommended for PND screening at 6–8 weeks.
- Antenatal screening
- EPDS also validated in pregnancy (use 12 cutoff antenatally).
- 3–4 month visit
- PND peaks 3–6 months postpartum; repeat screening improves detection.
A reference for clinicians and students, not medical advice. A score supports a decision; it does not make one. Check every result against the patient in front of you and your local protocol.
At a glance
- Specialty
- Obstetrics and gynaecology
- Inputs
- 10
- Type
- Points score
