The validity of the Arabic Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale

For the purpose of this study, a consecutive sample of 95 postpartum women were assessed at 1 week postpartum with the (EPDS) and at 8 +/- 2 weeks postpartum using the Present State Examination (PSE). A moderate correlation between PSE total score and EPDS score was found (r = 0.57). A moderate agreement between EPDS and Catego diagnosis of depression was also found (Kappa = 0.52). Using a cut-off score of 12 on EPDS and Catego diagnosis as a criterion variable, the sensitivity and specificity of the scale were 73% and 90%, respectively. However, using a cut-off score of 10, the sensitivity of the scale rose to 91% without much fall in its specificity (84%). The internal reliability of the scale was 0.84 (alpha Cronbach). We conclude that the Arabic version of the EPDS is a reliable and valid screening tool for depression in postpartum women.