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Edinburgh Depression Scale - Antenatal
The Edinburgh Depression Scale (EPDS) is a questionnaire used to check for depression during and after pregnancy. It is a screening tool only — it does not diagnose depression but helps identify women who need further support.
When to use it:
- During pregnancy: as early as possible, then at least once more
- After birth: at 6–12 weeks, then at least once more in the first year
What to do with the score:
- 10–12: Keep an eye on the woman and repeat the questionnaire in 2–4 weeks
- 13 or more: Refer for a fuller mental health assessment
- Question 10 flags a concern: Act straight away — if the woman mentions thoughts of self-harm, follow your local urgent care protocol
Use the correct NSW Health forms for each stage.
- Organisation:
- NSW Health
- Target audience:
- Health practitioners
- Service area:
- NSW
- Published:
- December 2019
- Last reviewed:
- May 2026
Multilingual resources
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