Brief Description
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a validated and widely used screening tool to help identify prenatal (after 27 weeks in the pregnancy) and postpartum depression in mothers. Global prevalence rates of perinatal depression range from 10-15%. The EPDS assesses for a range of emotional experiences commonly associated with perinatal depression, such as feelings of sadness, guilt, overwhelm, and anxiety, as well as physical symptoms like sleep disturbances and loss of appetite. The EPDS also assesses for thoughts of self-harm. The EPDS can be used in a variety of healthcare settings.
Assessment Administration Type
Self-report
Number of questions
10
Age Range for Administration
Not age dependent
Recommended Frequency of Administration
Weekly
Summary of Scoring and Interpretations
The 10 items on the EPDS are scored on a 4-point Likert scale with values from 0 to 3, with 0 indicating the absence of symptoms and 3 indicating severe symptoms. A total score is calculated by summing the item responses and ranges from 0 to 30; higher scores are associated with greater likelihood of perinatal depression.
Validation studies have found a range of threshold scores for determining likelihood of perinatal depression. Cut-off scores ranged from 9 to 13 points with higher cut-off scores providing greater specificity and reduced sensitivity. Research indicates that scores of 13 or greater suggest depression is likely.
Blueprint Adjustments
To account for the range of cut-off scores (9-13) validated within a large body of research, Blueprint uses a cut-off score of 10 which is the recommendation of the tool’s original developers.
Clinical Considerations
Estimated completion time: 3-5 minutes.
It is strongly recommended that clinicians review responses to Item 10, which asks about thoughts of self-harm. If endorsed, clinicians should further assess for suicidality and take action accordingly to ensure client safety.
The EPDS is meant to enhance clinical decision-making and monitor client progress. It should not serve as the sole basis for making a diagnosis.
Citation
Relevant Articles + Further Resources
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