A controlled study of postpartum depression among Nepalese women: validation of the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale in Kathmandu

Abstract

The prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) in Nepalese women and the validity and ease of use of the EPDS in the setting of a postnatal clinic in Kathmandu are all surprisingly similar to the results of numerous studies in developed countries. Despite poor living conditions, PPD is no more common than the background depression rate amongst Nepalese women. It can be reliably detected by trained clinical nurses using the EPDS screening test. These results may have implications for the planning of mental health resources for women in other developing countries.