EPDS Meaning and
Definition
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EPDS stands for Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. It is a widely used screening tool designed to help identify postnatal depression in women. Postnatal depression is a depressive disorder that affects women after childbirth, characterized by feelings of sadness, low mood, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. The EPDS is used to determine the presence and severity of postnatal depression symptoms.
The EPDS consists of a self-report questionnaire with ten multiple-choice items. Each item measures a specific aspect of postnatal depression, such as feelings of guilt, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. The respondent is asked to rate how they have been feeling over the past seven days, with response options ranging from "never" to "always" or from 0 to 3. The scores from each item are then summed to obtain a total score, which can range from 0 to 30.
A higher total score on the EPDS indicates a higher likelihood of experiencing postnatal depression. However, the scale does not provide a diagnosis but instead serves as a useful screening tool for healthcare professionals to identify those who may require further assessment and support. It is essential to note that a high EPDS score does not necessarily confirm the diagnosis, as further evaluation is needed to confirm the presence of postnatal depression.
The EPDS is a valuable and widely recognized tool in the field of perinatal mental health, supporting early detection and intervention for postnatal depression, ultimately improving the well-being and mental health outcomes of women in the postpartum period.
Common Misspellings for EPDS
- e3pds
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- ep-ds
- e0pds
- ep0ds
- epxds
- epdxs
- epcds
- epfds
- epdfs
- epeds
- epdzs
- epdsz
- epdsx
- epdds
- epdsd
- epdws
- epdsw
- epd s
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