This screen is based on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), a 10-item questionnaire developed by Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky (1987) for postpartum mood. Source: Cox et al., 1987 (PubMed).
How to use it: Answer about the past seven days honestly. It is a self-screen for new mothers.
Reading your score: Higher scores suggest a professional evaluation is worthwhile. It flags risk, not a diagnosis.
Limitations: This is a self-report screening tool, not a diagnosis. Baby blues are common; persistent low mood is not.
When to seek help: If you score high, or have thoughts of self-harm, contact your healthcare provider or 988 (US) right away. You deserve support.
Related: Our PHQ-9 Mood Self-Check and Mental Health Help (US).