EPDS
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is the standard screen for depression during pregnancy and after birth. It deliberately avoids somatic items that overlap with normal pregnancy and the postpartum period.
What the EPDS measures
The EPDS asks about ten feelings over the past seven days, focusing on mood and anxiety rather than physical symptoms like fatigue or sleep change that are expected around childbirth. One item asks specifically about thoughts of self-harm.
Who it's for
People who are pregnant or postpartum. It's a screening tool, not a diagnosis, and a positive screen warrants clinical follow-up.
Scoring
The ten items are summed for a total of 0–30. A score of 10 or more suggests possible depression and 13 or more probable depression; any positive response on the self-harm item is followed up regardless of the total.
Severity bands
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0–9 | Lower likelihood |
| 10–12 | Possible depression |
| 13+ | Probable depression |
How to access the EPDS
The EPDS is copyrighted by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. It may be reproduced for clinical use with appropriate attribution, but use within software or a service typically requires permission — so its items are not reproduced here.
Free alternatives you can use today
These validated measures cover similar clinical ground, are free to use, and are built into Theracharts:
- PHQ-9 — a free, broadly validated depression measure used across perinatal and general settings.
Interpreting a single score is only half the picture — knowing when a change is real matters too. See how assessment scoring works for severity bands, cutoffs, and reliable change.
Score and track it automatically
Theracharts auto-scores validated assessments, applies the severity bands, flags reliable change, and charts the trend across treatment. Free for up to 10 clients.
Get started freeAll assessmentsFrequently asked questions
What is a positive EPDS score?
A total of 10 or more suggests possible depression and 13 or more probable depression. Any positive response on the self-harm item is followed up regardless of the total.
Is the EPDS free to use?
The EPDS is copyrighted by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. It can be reproduced for clinical use with attribution, but use within software or a service typically requires permission.
In crisis? Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, US) — free, confidential, 24/7. This page is educational and is not a diagnostic tool or a substitute for professional evaluation.