You took the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and got a 13. Your stomach probably dropped. Take a breath. A score of 13 doesn’t mean you’re a bad mother. It means you’re struggling — and that’s both incredibly common and very treatable.
About 1 in 7 women go through postpartum depression. You’re not alone. And the fact that you even took the screening? That means you’re already doing something right for yourself and your baby.
What That EPDS Number Really Means
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a 10-question screening tool used worldwide to spot postpartum depression. Each question scores 0 to 3, so the highest possible total is 30.
Here’s how scores generally break down:
- 0 to 8: Low likelihood of depression — you’re probably going through normal postpartum adjustment
- 9 to 11: Possible depression — monitoring and follow-up are a good idea
- 12 to 13: Likely depression — a clinical assessment is strongly recommended
- 14 and above: Probable major depression — you need a professional evaluation soon
A score of 13 sits right at the most commonly used clinical cutoff. Most guidelines flag a 12 or 13 as the point where a referral should happen. So yes, this score means it’s time to have a real conversation with your healthcare provider.
What a 13 Does NOT Mean
Let’s be crystal clear about this:
- It doesn’t diagnose you with postpartum depression. Only a clinician can do that after a full evaluation
- It doesn’t mean you’ll feel this way forever. Postpartum depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions out there
- It doesn’t mean your bond with your baby is ruined. Treatment restores that connection
- It doesn’t mean you’re weak. Hormonal upheaval, sleep deprivation, and the massive life shift of new parenthood create a perfect storm for depression — it’s biology, not character
What You Might Be Experiencing Right Now
Women who score around 13 typically report several of these:
- Feeling sad or tearful most of the day
- Can’t sleep even when the baby is finally asleep
- Feeling crushed by tasks that used to feel manageable
- Reduced interest in things — or in the baby
- Anxiety or worry that won’t quit
- Irritability or anger that feels way out of proportion
- Brain fog — can’t concentrate or make decisions
- Guilt or a nagging feeling that you’re failing as a parent
Not every woman gets the same mix. Some feel mostly anxious rather than sad. Others feel numb rather than tearful. There’s no one-size-fits-all presentation.
Question 10: If You Checked Anything 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. Not next week. Today. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re suicidal, but it does mean you need support now.
If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call the Postpartum Support International helpline at 1-800-944-4773 or text “HELP” to 988.
Your Next Steps — Don’t Overthink This
Step 1: Call Your Provider
Call your OB-GYN, midwife, or primary care doctor. Tell them you scored 13 on the EPDS. Most offices will get you in within a few days. You don’t need to wait for your six-week postpartum visit.
Step 2: Be Honest When You’re There
So many women minimize their symptoms because they feel ashamed or scared. Your provider has seen this before. They won’t judge you. The more honest you are, the better they can actually help.
Step 3: Talk Through Treatment Options
Treatment for postpartum depression usually involves one or more of these:
- Therapy: CBT and interpersonal therapy both work well for postpartum depression. Many therapists offer telehealth now — which is a lifesaver when leaving the house feels impossible
- Medication: SSRIs like sertraline are considered safe during breastfeeding and are the go-to first-line treatment. Your doctor can walk you through the specific risks and benefits for your situation
- Support groups: Postpartum Support International runs free groups (virtual and in-person) led by trained volunteers. Hearing other moms say “me too” does something therapy alone sometimes can’t
- Practical help: Sometimes the most important “treatment” is someone taking the baby so you can sleep, or handling the dishes and laundry. This isn’t a luxury — it’s part of getting better
For Partners: What Actually Helps
If you’re reading this as a partner, here’s what makes a real difference:
- Believe her. Don’t 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 you can. Sleep deprivation is both a cause and a consequence of postpartum depression — it’s a vicious cycle
- Make the appointment. If she’s struggling to pick up the phone, do it for her. Offer to drive. Watch the baby during the visit
- Run the house. Dishes, laundry, groceries. Reducing her mental load creates space for recovery
- Ask every day. A simple “how are you really feeling today?” goes further than you’d think
- Watch for red flags. If symptoms worsen, if she talks about being a burden, or if she mentions harming herself or the baby — get emergency help immediately
What Recovery Actually Looks Like
With proper treatment, most women start feeling noticeably better within 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery usually takes 3 to 6 months, though it varies. Some women bounce back faster. Some need more time.
And recovery isn’t a straight line. You’ll have good days and awful days. A bad day doesn’t mean treatment has failed. It means healing takes time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I retake the EPDS?
Yes. Your provider will probably ask you to retake it at follow-up visits to track progress. If treatment is working, your scores should gradually come down over weeks to months.
Is this different from baby blues?
Baby blues hit up to 80% of new mothers and clear up on their own within two weeks of delivery. Postpartum depression is more severe, lasts longer, and needs treatment. If your symptoms have stuck around past the two-week mark, it’s likely more than just the blues.
Can postpartum depression show up months later?
Absolutely. It can develop anytime within the first year after giving birth. Late onset doesn’t make it less real or less treatable.
