Postpartum Test
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
Free postpartum depression screening using the EPDS. Validated 10-question assessment takes 5 minutes. Use during pregnancy or after birth. Confidential results.
Test Information
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Important Notice
This screening tool is for informational and educational purposes only and does not provide a diagnosis. If you answered anything other than 'Never' to question 10 (thoughts of self-harm), seek immediate help by calling 988, texting HOME to 741741, or going to your nearest emergency room. If you're concerned about your mood during pregnancy or after childbirth, consider reaching out for support.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I take this test?
The EPDS can be used during pregnancy and up to one year after giving birth. It's commonly administered at 6-8 weeks postpartum, but you can take it anytime you're concerned about your mood.
How is postpartum depression different from the 'baby blues'?
Baby blues affect up to 80% of new mothers, start 2-3 days after delivery, and last about 2 weeks. Symptoms include mood swings, crying, anxiety, and sleep difficulty. Postpartum depression is more severe, lasts longer (weeks to months), and interferes with your ability to care for yourself and your baby. If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks or are severe, it's likely postpartum depression.
Can I have postpartum depression even if I love my baby?
Yes. Many parents love their baby and still feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed after birth. These feelings are about stress, sleep loss, and adjustment—not about love.
Where can I find support?
Start by telling someone you trust and asking for practical help. Many people also find support groups helpful. Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773) can help you find local and remote resources.
What if my partner or family member seems to have postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression can affect partners too. If you're concerned, encourage them to reach out for support. Offer help with childcare so they can rest, and be supportive without judgment. You can share this screening tool with them.
Will postpartum depression go away on its own?
Some people improve with rest and support, but for others symptoms can persist. If symptoms last beyond two weeks, worsen, or feel hard to manage, reaching out for additional support can help.
What causes postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is caused by a combination of factors: hormonal changes after delivery, sleep deprivation, physical recovery from childbirth, stress of caring for a newborn, changes in identity and relationships, and sometimes a history of depression or anxiety. It's not caused by anything you did or didn't do.
Is my information kept private?
Yes. Your answers are processed in your browser and are not sent to our servers. Your progress and results may be saved locally in your browser on this device so you can come back later. You can clear this data by using the retake option or clearing your browser storage.
Related Resources
Standard depression assessment for general adult population
Quick 2-question screening for initial detection
Immediate resources if you're experiencing a mental health crisis