Take a free Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale assessment. Identify PPD symptoms and get guidance on next steps. Free. Not medical advice.
Postpartum depression affects 1 in 8 new mothers — yet only 15% receive treatment because symptoms are dismissed as normal new-parent exhaustion or mothers feel ashamed to report them. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is the gold standard screening tool used by OBs and midwives worldwide. Our assessment takes 3 minutes and provides clarity on whether what you are experiencing warrants professional support.
Baby blues affect 70-80% of new mothers: mood swings, tearfulness, anxiety, and irritability beginning 2-3 days after birth and resolving within 2 weeks. Postpartum depression is more severe and persistent: begins within 4 weeks of birth but can develop up to 12 months postpartum, lasts longer than 2 weeks, significantly impairs ability to care for baby or yourself, and may include inability to bond with baby, intrusive thoughts, and hopelessness.
Effective PPD treatments: Therapy — CBT and interpersonal therapy both have strong evidence for PPD. Medication — SSRIs are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers with the guidance of a physician. Support groups — connection with other mothers experiencing PPD significantly reduces isolation. Practical support — help with infant care and household tasks reduces overwhelm. PPD is highly treatable — 80-90% of women recover fully with appropriate support.
The EPDS is a 10-question validated screening tool developed in 1987 and used globally to identify mothers at risk of perinatal depression. A score of 10 or above suggests possible depression warranting further evaluation. A score of 13 or above is considered a positive screen. The EPDS takes 3-5 minutes to complete and is routinely administered at 6-week postpartum checkups.
Without treatment postpartum depression typically lasts 7 months to over a year. Some women experience symptoms for several years if untreated. With appropriate treatment most women see significant improvement within 4-8 weeks. Early treatment leads to faster and more complete recovery. If you suspect PPD contact your OB or midwife promptly — do not wait to see if it resolves on its own.
Yes — paternal postpartum depression affects approximately 10% of new fathers, typically emerging 3-6 months after birth (later than maternal PPD). Symptoms in fathers often present differently: increased irritability, frustration, escapist behaviors, and anger rather than sadness. Fathers with PPD also benefit from professional support — it is equally treatable with therapy and medication.
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