section name header

Assess

The EPDS is a valid screening tool for detecting postpartum depression. It is important to differentiate postpartum blues from postpartal depression and to observe for psychosis. Bipolar disorder and previous postpartum psychosis increase risk for suicide or infanticide. (See Postpartum (Peripartum) Major Depressive Episode in the Disorders-Interventions Tab for signs and symptoms, evaluation, and treatment of postpartum depression.) Note: May also be used to screen for paternal depression (Edmondson 2010).