Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

A validated screening tool to assess postnatal depression risk in new mothers

How this test works

Method notes for the instrument used on this page: source, scoring, how we run it online, and what the result cannot tell you.

Instrument: Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
Source: Cox, J. L., Holden, J. M., & Sagovsky, R. (1987). Detection of postnatal depression: development of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 150(6), 782-786. doi:10.1192/bjp.150.6.782
Items and scoring: 10 items, each scored 0-3 for the past seven days; total 0-30.
Score bands: 0-9: low
10-12: moderate
13-19: high
20-30: severe
How we run it online: All 10 items are shown with their standard option order; the total is the unweighted sum.
Item 10 asks about self-harm; if it is endorsed, the page surfaces support information.
Scoring runs in your browser during a single session; no account is required.
Limitations: The EPDS is a screening questionnaire, not a diagnosis; a band does not establish postnatal depression.
It was developed for the perinatal period and is not a general-population mood scale.
The bands are screening thresholds from research settings, not norms for a general online audience.
How to cite: Kuakua. (2026). EPDS Test. https://kuakua.app/test/epds — instrument: Cox, Holden & Sagovsky (1987), doi:10.1192/bjp.150.6.782

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About This Test

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a widely used screening questionnaire designed to identify women who may be experiencing postnatal depression. Developed by Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky in 1987, it has been validated across different cultures and languages.

How It Works

Answer 10 questions about your feelings in the past 7 days
Each question has 4 response options scored from 0-3
Your total score indicates your risk level for postnatal depression
Receive personalized recommendations based on your results

Scoring & Interpretation

0-9: Low Risk

Minimal symptoms of postnatal depression

10-12: Moderate Risk

Mild symptoms that may benefit from support

13-19: High Risk

Significant symptoms requiring professional evaluation

20-30: Severe Risk

Severe symptoms requiring immediate professional help

Important Note

This screening tool is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby, please seek immediate help from a healthcare provider or emergency services.

Usage Guidelines

Complete the questionnaire in a quiet, private space
Answer based on how you've felt in the past 7 days
Be honest - there are no right or wrong answers
Consider sharing results with your healthcare provider
Retake the test periodically to monitor changes

Disclaimer

This tool is for educational and screening purposes only. It should not replace professional medical consultation. If you have concerns about your mental health, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional.

This test is for educational and self-reflection purposes only. It is not a diagnostic tool. If you are experiencing mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

References

Cox, J. L., Holden, J. M., & Sagovsky, R. (1987). Detection of postnatal depression: development of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 150(6), 782-786.

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