Validating the French Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale to Screen for Postnatal Depression in Fathers

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on fathers during the perinatal period, a time of significant psychological changes, identity challenges, anxiety, and risk of depression. The study aims to validate the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale EPDS as a screening tool for postnatal depression specifically in French fathers, addressing a gap since EPDS is widely used for women but not yet validated for men in this context. Fathers participate by completing the PH-Q9, EPDS, and socio-demographic questionnaires online at the start of the study and again 6 to 8 weeks after their childs birth. Those included at the maternity hospital or through their wives also undergo the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview MINI at inclusion, which is a standard diagnostic tool for postnatal depression. Fathers recruited via an awareness campaign complete the questionnaires but do not have the MINI interview. Participants will be assessed twice at inclusion and 6 to 8 weeks postpartum, with those at maternity wards also receiving the MINI interview at inclusion. Researchers will measure depression risk using EPDS and confirm diagnosis with MINI. The study includes socio-demographic data collection, with no masking or randomization. Participation involves online questionnaires and an interview for some, with the overall goal to improve screening methods for paternal postnatal depression.

Validation of the French Version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) Postnatally in the Father