What should you know about a postnatal depression scale?

A scale typically asks about emotional experiences such as low mood, reduced pleasure, worry, guilt and feeling overwhelmed. Some questions also check for thoughts about self-harm. The score reflects your answers at that point; it is not a measure of your worth as a parent and cannot explain every cause of distress.

A clinician combines the score with your story, sleep, physical recovery, relationships, functioning and safety. Symptoms can overlap with anxiety or other health problems, so a broader assessment may be appropriate.

Answer honestly and ask what time period each question covers. Tell the clinician if language, privacy, exhaustion or cultural expectations made an answer difficult. Keep a brief note of mood changes between visits, including what makes symptoms better or worse. [Perinatal Mental Health Support](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/perinatal-mental-health-support/) can help you explore care options. A [Low Sex Drive](/symptoms/low-sex-drive/) symptom may also be worth mentioning if it is troubling you.

Do not wait for a screening appointment if you feel unsafe, have thoughts of suicide or harming your baby, or are severely confused or hearing voices. Contact local emergency services or attend an emergency department immediately, taking a trusted person with you if possible. For ongoing sadness, anxiety or withdrawal, arrange a professional review even if a scale score seems reassuring.

What does this scale measure? How should my score shape the next step? Could anxiety or a physical problem be contributing? What therapy or other support is available? When should I repeat the assessment?