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The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale: validation in a Norwegian community sample.
M Eberhard-Gran1, A Eskild, K Tambs
1Section of Epidemiology, National Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404, Torshov, NO-0403 Oslo, Norway.
Nordic Journal of Psychiatry
|January 23, 2002
Summary
This study validated the Norwegian Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The EPDS is a reliable tool for screening postpartum depression in Norwegian women.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant concern affecting maternal mental health.
- Accurate screening tools are crucial for early identification and intervention.
- The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a widely used screening tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate a Norwegian translation of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).
- To assess the EPDS's utility as a screening instrument for major depression in postpartum women in Norway.
Main Methods:
- A Norwegian version of the EPDS was administered to 310 women 6 weeks postpartum.
- A subsample of 56 women underwent diagnostic interviews based on DSM-IV criteria for major depression (using PRIME-MD).
- Correlations were examined with the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale and Hopkins Symptom Check List (SCL-25).
Main Results:
- A cutoff score of >=10 on the EPDS demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 87% specificity for detecting major depression.
- EPDS scores showed strong correlations with established depression rating scales (Montgomery-Asberg and SCL-25).
- Validation results were comparable to previous EPDS studies, despite wide confidence intervals.
Conclusions:
- The Norwegian translation of the EPDS is a valid and effective clinical screening instrument for postpartum depression.
- The EPDS can aid in the early detection of PPD among Norwegian-speaking populations.
- Further research with narrower confidence intervals may strengthen these findings.