The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a validated 10-item screening questionnaire developed to identify women at risk for postpartum (postnatal) depression. Developed by Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky in 1987, it remains the gold standard perinatal depression screener used in clinical practice worldwide. Each item is scored 0–3, with some questions reverse-scored, for a total of 0–30. This free tool calculates your EPDS score instantly and provides guidance on next steps.
This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). For postpartum support, call 1-800-944-4773 (Postpartum Support International). In an emergency, call 911.
EPDS Questionnaire
In the past 7 days, please select the answer that comes closest to how you have felt.
1 I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things
2 I have looked forward with enjoyment to things
3 I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong
4 I have been anxious or worried for no good reason
5 I have felt scared or panicky for no very good reason
6 Things have been getting on top of me
7 I have been so unhappy that I have had difficulty sleeping
8 I have felt sad or miserable
9 I have been so unhappy that I have been crying
10 The thought of harming myself has occurred to me
If you answer anything other than "Never," we strongly encourage you to seek support right away.
Please reach out for support right away.
Your answer to Question 10 indicates you may be having thoughts of self-harm. You are not alone, and help is available now.
- • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 (US, 24/7)
- • Postpartum Support International — call 1-800-944-4773
- • Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741
- • Emergency — call 911
Your EPDS Result
Score out of 30
EPDS Score Reference
Medical Disclaimer: The EPDS is a screening tool only and does not constitute a clinical diagnosis. A high score indicates that a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is recommended. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a crisis line or emergency services immediately.
How to Use the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a simple, validated questionnaire designed to help identify mothers — and fathers — who may be experiencing symptoms of postnatal depression. It takes fewer than five minutes to complete and provides an immediate score that can guide a conversation with a healthcare provider.
Step 1: Answer all 10 questions honestly
Each question asks how you have been feeling in the past 7 days. Select the option that best reflects your experience — not how you think you "should" feel. There are no right or wrong answers; the EPDS only works if you respond as truthfully as possible.
Step 2: Note the scoring pattern
Questions 1, 2, and 4 are scored in forward order (first option = 0 points, last option = 3 points). Questions 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are reverse-scored (first option = 3 points, last option = 0 points). This tool handles the scoring automatically — the point values are shown in parentheses on each answer option so you can follow along.
Step 3: Review your score
Once all 10 questions are answered, your total EPDS score (0–30) and interpretation appear automatically:
- 0–9: Depression not likely. Postnatal adjustment difficulties are normal, but ongoing monitoring is still worthwhile.
- 10–12: Possible depression. A conversation with your midwife, GP, or health visitor is recommended.
- 13 or above: Likely major depression. Prompt professional evaluation and support is strongly advised.
Step 4: Pay special attention to Question 10
Question 10 asks about thoughts of self-harm. Any score greater than 0 on this item — regardless of your total — warrants immediate follow-up. If this applies to you, please reach out to a healthcare provider, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or contact Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773.
When should the EPDS be used?
The EPDS is typically administered at 6–8 weeks postpartum, but it is also validated for use during pregnancy and at later postnatal visits. Partners and fathers can also complete the EPDS, as research shows paternal postnatal depression affects approximately 10% of new fathers. Regular screening is recommended because perinatal depression can develop at any point during pregnancy or in the first year after birth.
Limitations of the EPDS
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A high score does not confirm a diagnosis of postpartum depression, and a low score does not rule it out entirely. Cultural, linguistic, and situational factors can influence responses. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare professional who can conduct a full clinical assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this EPDS tool free to use?
Yes, this Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale tool is completely free with no account or signup required. You can use it as many times as needed. All processing runs locally in your browser — nothing is sent to a server.
Is my data safe and private?
Yes, all your answers and scores are processed entirely in your browser. No responses, scores, or personal information are ever sent to a server or stored anywhere. When you close the page, everything is gone.
What is the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale?
The EPDS is a validated 10-item self-report screening questionnaire developed by Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky (1987) to identify women at risk for perinatal depression. It is one of the most widely used postpartum depression screening tools in clinical practice worldwide. Items are scored 0–3 for a total of 0–30.
What do EPDS score ranges mean?
Scores of 0–9 suggest depression is not likely. Scores of 10–12 indicate possible depression and a conversation with a healthcare provider is recommended. Scores of 13 or above suggest likely major depression and prompt professional evaluation is advised. A score alone does not constitute a diagnosis.
Can this tool diagnose postpartum depression?
No. The EPDS is a screening instrument, not a diagnostic tool. A high score indicates that further evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional is warranted. Only a licensed clinician can diagnose postpartum depression and recommend appropriate treatment.
What is special about Question 10 on the EPDS?
Question 10 asks about thoughts of self-harm. Any score greater than 0 on this item — regardless of your total score — warrants immediate follow-up with a healthcare provider. Crisis resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773) are available 24/7.
Why are some EPDS questions scored differently?
Three items (1, 2, and 4) are forward-scored (first option = 0 points). The remaining seven items (3, 5–10) are reverse-scored (first option = 3 points). This mixed scoring is part of the validated EPDS design and is handled automatically by this tool — you simply answer each question honestly.
Who should use the EPDS?
The EPDS was originally designed for mothers in the postnatal period (typically within the first year after birth), but it is also validated for use during pregnancy and with fathers and partners. It is not a substitute for clinical assessment but is a useful first step in recognizing symptoms that warrant professional support.