You took the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and scored 13. Your stomach probably dropped when you saw that number. Take a breath. A score of 13 on the EPDS does not mean you are a bad mother. It means you are struggling, and that is both common and treatable.
About 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression. You are not alone, and the fact that you took the screening means you are already doing something right for yourself and your baby.
What the EPDS Score Means
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a 10-question screening tool used worldwide to detect postpartum depression. Each question is scored from 0 to 3, giving a total possible score of 30.
Here is how scores are generally interpreted:
- 0 to 8: Low likelihood of depression. You may be experiencing normal postpartum adjustment
- 9 to 11: Possible depression. Monitoring and follow-up are recommended
- 12 to 13: Likely depression. Clinical assessment is strongly recommended
- 14 and above: Probable major depression. Prompt professional evaluation is needed
A score of 13 falls right at the most commonly used clinical cutoff point. Most guidelines use a threshold of 12 or 13 to trigger a referral for further evaluation. This means your score warrants a conversation with your healthcare provider.
What an EPDS Score of 13 Does NOT Mean
Let me be clear about what this score does not tell you:
- It does not diagnose you with postpartum depression. Only a clinician can make that diagnosis after a full evaluation
- It does not mean you will feel this way forever. Postpartum depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions
- It does not mean your bond with your baby is damaged. Treatment restores connection
- It does not mean you are weak. Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the enormous life adjustment of new parenthood create a perfect storm for depression
Common Symptoms at This Score Level
Women who score around 13 on the EPDS typically report several of these experiences:
- Feeling sad or tearful most of the day
- Difficulty sleeping even when the baby is asleep
- Feeling overwhelmed by tasks that used to feel manageable
- Reduced interest in activities or the baby
- Anxiety or worry that feels excessive or hard to control
- Irritability or anger that feels out of proportion
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of guilt or inadequacy as a parent
Not every woman experiences the same constellation of symptoms. Some women with postpartum depression feel mostly anxious rather than sad. Others feel numb rather than tearful.
Question 10: A Special Note About Self-Harm
The EPDS includes a question about thoughts of self-harm. If you answered anything other than “never” on question 10, please reach out to a healthcare provider today. This does not necessarily mean you are suicidal, but it does mean you need support now, not next week.
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call the Postpartum Support International helpline at 1-800-944-4773 or text “HELP” to 988.
What to Do Next
Step 1: Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Call your OB-GYN, midwife, or primary care doctor. Tell them you scored 13 on the EPDS. Most offices will schedule you within a few days for a clinical evaluation. You do not need to wait for your six-week postpartum visit.
Step 2: Be Honest During Your Evaluation
Many women minimize their symptoms because they feel ashamed or afraid. Your provider has seen this before. They will not judge you. The more honest you are, the better they can help you.
Step 3: Discuss Treatment Options
Treatment for postpartum depression typically includes one or more of the following:
- Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy are both effective for postpartum depression. Many therapists now offer telehealth sessions, which is helpful when leaving the house feels impossible
- Medication: SSRIs like sertraline are considered safe during breastfeeding and are the first-line medication treatment. Your doctor can discuss the specific risks and benefits for your situation
- Support groups: Postpartum Support International runs free support groups (virtual and in-person) facilitated by trained volunteers. Hearing other mothers share similar experiences reduces shame and isolation
- Practical support: Sometimes the most important intervention is help with the baby, sleep, and household tasks. This is not a luxury. It is part of treatment
How Partners Can Help
If you are reading this as a partner, here is what actually helps:
- Believe her. Do not say “all new moms feel this way” or “you should be grateful.” Postpartum depression is a medical condition, not an attitude problem
- Take over night feedings when possible. Sleep deprivation is both a cause and a consequence of postpartum depression
- Make the appointment. If she is struggling to call the doctor, offer to make the call for her. Offer to drive her there and watch the baby during the appointment
- Handle the house. Dishes, laundry, groceries. Reducing her cognitive load makes space for recovery
- Check in daily. A simple “how are you feeling today, really?” goes further than you think
- Watch for worsening. If her symptoms get worse, if she talks about being a burden, or if she mentions harming herself or the baby, seek emergency help immediately
Recovery Timeline
With proper treatment, most women with postpartum depression begin to feel noticeably better within 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 3 to 6 months, though this varies. Some women recover faster, and some need longer.
Treatment is not linear. You will have good days and bad days. A bad day does not mean treatment is failing. It means recovery takes time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I retake the EPDS?
Yes. Your provider may ask you to retake it at follow-up visits to track your progress. If you are in treatment, scores should gradually decrease over weeks to months.
Is postpartum depression different from baby blues?
Baby blues affect up to 80% of new mothers and resolve on their own within two weeks of delivery. Postpartum depression is more severe, lasts longer, and requires treatment. If your symptoms have persisted beyond two weeks postpartum, it is likely more than baby blues.
Can postpartum depression start months after delivery?
Yes. Postpartum depression can develop anytime within the first year after giving birth. Late onset does not make it less real or less treatable.
