Glossary

Term · Postpartum: Mind

EPDS item 10

Also: EPDS question 10, Edinburgh question 10, self-harm question on the EPDS

The tenth question on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, which asks about thoughts of harming yourself. A yes answer needs a direct, same-day conversation.

In plain words

The , or EPDS, is a short questionnaire many providers use after birth. Item 10 asks whether you have had thoughts of harming yourself. It is one of ten questions. A non-zero answer does not mean you will act on the thought. It means your provider should talk with you about it directly, that day. Many mothers answer this question with a yes and feel relieved to be asked. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, call or text now, or call 911 if you are in danger. The , 1-833-852-6262, can also help. You do not need to be in crisis to call.

The deeper version

The EPDS (Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky, British Journal of Psychiatry, 1987) is a ten-item self-report scale validated for antenatal and postnatal screening. Item 10 (self-harm) is scored separately in many protocols, and any positive response triggers a structured risk assessment rather than a total-score decision. Recommended cut-offs for probable depression vary, commonly 10 to 13 depending on population and language version. The scale is a screen, not a diagnosis. NICE guideline CG192 (2014) on antenatal and postnatal mental health advises asking directly about self-harm. The predictive value of a positive item 10 for subsequent suicidal behavior is limited, which is why clinical follow-up rather than a score cut-off drives the response.

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Sources

  • Cox JL, Holden JM, Sagovsky R — Detection of postnatal depression: development of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. British Journal of Psychiatry, 1987
  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence — Antenatal and postnatal mental health, guideline CG192, 2014

The Mothership Topic Wiki is general information for mothers and the people who care for them. It is not medical, legal, or mental-health advice and does not create a provider relationship. Experiences posted by members are their own. In an emergency call 911. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988.