The Edinburgh Perinatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
The Edinburgh Perinatal Depression Scale (also known as the EPDS) is a formally recognised postpartum depression screening test. It is common in Australia and is helpful at identifying and measuring:
- postpartum depression
- postpartum rage
- postpartum anxiety
- antenatal depression
- perinatal depression.
What is the EPDS?
The EPDS is a 10-question tool designed to help new and expectant parents assess their mental health. It’s a simple, relatively easy, and valuable way to detect depression early during pregnancy and after a baby is born.
It works by asking new parents about how they’ve felt in the last seven days prior to taking the test. They must select one answer from its multiple-choice questions. For example:
I have felt happy:
- Yes, all of the time
- Yes, most of the time
- No, not very often
- No, not at all
How does the EPDS help?
- learn about coping tools and strategies
- recommended professional help or self-guided support options if needed
Who should take the test?
Taking the EPDS test is a first step in identifying postpartum depression and other mood disorders. It’s designed for new parents and people who are expecting a baby – both mothers and fathers.
What to expect
- Low: This range may indicate some symptoms of perinatal depression. These symptoms may be short-lived and less likely to interfere with your ability to function at home or at work.
- Medium: This range indicates some symptoms of perinatal depression. It’s a good idea to repeat the test after two weeks, and if your score moves to high, you may need an appointment with your GP or a referral to a specialist.
- High: This range indicates you have a high level of depression that requires clinical support and management. You may need to see a psychiatrist or psychologist to ensure the wellbeing of you and your baby.
Further resources
- COPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence) – resources, information and support for new and expecting parents.
- PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) – promotes the mental health of parents and families during pregnancy and the first year of parenthood.
