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Diagnosis of Postnatal Depression

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The diagnosis of postnatal depression is made by means of a clinical interview with the patient. There are no imaging or laboratory tests that can help to provide a reliable diagnosis of the disorder.

For the detection of postnatal depression questionnaires, such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS; Cox et al., 1987; validated by Garcia-Esteve et al., 2003) can be used. When elevated scores in this scale are obtained, specialists in psychiatry or psychology are required in order to confirm the diagnosis by means of a clinical interview.

Where to ask for help?

Until when is it considered postpartum depression?

Substantiated information by:

Alba Roca Psychiatrist Perinatal Mental Health Unit

Anna Torres Giménez Clinical Psychologist Perinatal Mental Health Unit

Lluïsa García Esteve Psychiatrist Psychiatrist. President of the Intrafamily and Gender Violence Commission

Susana Andrés Perpiñá Psychologist Perinatal Mental Health Unit

Published: 7 May 2019
Updated: 19 October 2023

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