The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI): development of a Japanese version

IntroductionA valid and reliable self‐administered scale to measure multidimensional aspects of female sexual function is needed in Japan, as sexual dysfunction is quite common in Japanese women.AimThe aim of this paper is to develop a Japanese translation of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI‐J), 3‐month version, and to measure its psychometric reliability and validity.MethodsFollowing a language validation process and pilot tests, we modified the scale by adding some instructions and answer options. A cross‐sectional survey to examine psychometric reliability and validity of FSFI‐J was conducted with 126 healthy Japanese women in partnered relationships. Reliability studies on test–retest and on internal consistency were conducted using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach's α coefficient, respectively. A validity study was conducted on aspects of face, construct, concurrent, and discriminant validity.Main Outcome MeasuresThe main outcome is the psychometric reliability and validity of FSFI‐J.ResultsFSFI‐J showed high test–retest reliability (ICC > 0.78) and high internal consistency (Cronbach's α > 0.84). In terms of face validity, FSFI‐J was found to be understandable and can adequately measure various aspects of female sexual function. Regarding construct validity, exploratory factor analysis of FSFI‐J supported a five‐factor solution, consisting of desire/arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. This domain structure was identical to that of the original FSFI. Regarding concurrent validity, FSFI‐J total score and domain scores showed significant correlations (Pearson's r = ?0.613 for total score) with the sexual function domain of the perimenopausal subjective symptom inventory and overall sexual satisfaction as measured by a visual analog scale (Pearson's r = 0.387). For discriminant validity, the regular menstruation group showed significantly higher FSFI‐J scores than the menopause group in the total score and all subdomain scores except sexual satisfaction.ConclusionsThe FSFI‐J is a valid and reliable instrument to measure multidimensional aspects of sexual function in healthy Japanese women who are in partnered relationships. Takahashi M, Inokuchi T, Watanabe C, Saito T, and Kai I. The female sexual function index (FSFI): Development of a Japanese version. J Sex Med 2011;8:2246–2254.     

ORIGINAL RESEARCH—OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT: Developing and Validating a Taiwan Version of the Female Sexual Function Index for Pregnant Women

IntroductionHealth professionals should pay more attention to the sexual concerns of pregnant women. An assessment instrument for female sexual function is needed for pregnant women in the Taiwanese population.AimTo translate the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) from English to traditional Chinese, and to evaluate the reliability and validity of this new version for pregnant women.MethodsTest–retest reliability of the newly developed Taiwan version of the FSFI for pregnant women was assessed in 55 pregnant women who completed this version of the questionnaire at two time points within 4 weeks. The internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the Taiwan version of the FSFI in a medical center in Taiwan were evaluated using a random sample of 121 pregnant women.Main Outcome MeasuresReliability was tested using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, Kappa statistics, McNemar's test, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Construct validity was verified by factor analysis using the principal component option.ResultsThe Taiwan version of the FSFI showed adequate test–retest reliability for pregnant women. The Pearson correlation coefficient of the total score was 0.69, Kappa statistics showed good reproducibility for most items, and McNemar's test confirmed that there were no significant differences in the test–retest pair for the 19 items of the scale. The internal consistency reliability of the scale was excellent (Cronbach's [alpha] = 0.96). Three factors were identified with eigenvalues ≥1.03, explaining 87.10% of the total variance. The first, second, and third factors were “coitus,”“satisfaction,” and “desire”, accounting for 72.32%, 9.37%, and 5.42% of the variance, respectively.ConclusionThe results provided evidence of the validity and reliability of the Taiwan version of the FSFI for pregnant women. The questionnaire is a suitable instrument for measuring the sexual function of pregnant women and will be useful in research, teaching, and clinical practice. Chang SR, Chang TC, Chen KH, and Lin HH. Developing and validating a Taiwan version of the Female Sexual Function Index for pregnant women. J Sex Med 2009;6:1609–1616.     

Development and validation of Chinese version of female sexual function index in a Chinese population-a pilot study

IntroductionFemale sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a prevalent problem that has been continuously overlooked in mainland China. An assessment instrument for FSD is urgently needed.AimTo develop and validate the Chinese version of the Female Sexual Function Index (CVFSFI) to assess FSD in China.MethodsA total of 328 women (20–65 years old) participated in this study. The CVFSFI was developed through the procedures of translation, back translation, revision by research team, and pilot study. After an interview for clinical diagnosis of FSD based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM‐IV‐TR) criteria, all participants completed the CVFSFI for a validation study. Eighty‐three women completed CVFSFI again 3–4 weeks after the first visit. Test–retest reliability was determined by Pearson product–moment correlations. Internal consistency reliability was estimated with Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Construct validity was evaluated by principal component analysis using varimax rotation. Discriminant validity was assessed with between‐groups analysis of variance.Main Outcome MeasuresIncluding the reliability and the validity of the CVFSFI and its domains.ResultsA total of 172 women (52.4%) met the DSM‐IV‐TR criteria for diagnosis of sexual dysfunction and were included in the FSD group, while 156 (47.6%) women without FSD were included in the control group. We showed that the overall test–retest reliability coefficients were high for total CVFSFI and each domain (r at least 0.69) and the internal consistency reliability of CVFSFI was within the acceptable range (Cronbach's alpha values: from 0.69 to 0.94). Moreover, the principal component analysis with varimax rotation produced six‐factor structure similar to the original FSFI. We found significant differences in both total and domain scores between FSD and control groups, demonstrating a good discriminant validity of CVFSFI.ConclusionThe CVFSFI is a reliable and valid questionnaire, which can be used in the assessment of FSD among Chinese women. Sun X, Li C, Jin L, Fan Y, and Wang D. Development and validation of Chinese version of Female Sexual Function Index in a Chinese population—A pilot study.     

Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ) into Spanish

Abstract

Aim: The objective of this study was to translate and transculturally adapt into Spanish the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Methods: The translation procedure included a forward step (translation and synthesis) and a quantitative and qualitative control of the usefulness of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire. Afterwards, a prefinal version of the Spanish adapted questionnaire was pretested on 58 pregnant women from Granada (south of Spain). The content, semantic, technical, conceptual, and experiential equivalents of cultural adaptation were discussed by the research members at each step.

Results: After the pre-test, two items of the original Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire were replaced by new items that the team considered more culturally appropriate for Spanish pregnant women. Also, some rewording into the European metric system. The response time ranged from 5 to 15?minutes. These changes were well understood and worked properly in the final version. A final version of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire was agreed on after a discussion among the research members about the results obtained in the prefinal version.

Conclusion: The final Spanish version of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire has showed cross-cultural equivalence with the original English version.     

Sexual Dysfunction and Distress—Development of a Polish Version of the Female Sexual Distress Scale‐Revised

IntroductionThe concept of sexually related personal distress, central to the diagnosis of all female sexual dysfunction (FSD), is currently a subject of scientific debate. Several psychometric instruments have been used to measure sexually related personal distress in women, including the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) and its revised version (FSDS‐R).AimTo develop a Polish version of the FSDS‐R (PL‐FSDS‐R).MethodsIn total, 210 women aged 18–55 years were included in the study. Seventy‐five were diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), 31 were diagnosed with another FSD, and 104 were control. All subjects completed the PL‐FSDS‐R at baseline (day 0), day 7, and day 28. Internal consistencies were evaluated by Cronbach's α. Intraclass correlation coefficient was used to assess test–retest reliability. Discriminant validity was assessed by comparing mean scores of the FSD and control groups in a between‐groups analysis of variance. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine optimal cutoff values of the PL‐FSDS‐R.Main Outcome MeasuresTo measure the validity and reliability of the PL‐FSDS‐R and to determine optimal cutoff values.ResultsMean total PL‐FSDS‐R score was statistically higher in women with HSDD and other FSD compared to healthy individuals, showing the test had discriminant validity. The frequency of sexual intercourse and quality of relationship with sexual partner but not other sexual behaviors were statistically correlated with the PL‐FSDS‐R score. ROC analysis confirmed these findings. All domains of the PL‐FSDS‐R demonstrated satisfactory internal consistencies, with a Cronbach's α‐value of >0.70 for the entire sample. Test–retest coefficients were between 0.86–0.92, with the best reliability for a 7‐day recall period.ConclusionsThe PL‐FSDS‐R is a reliable questionnaire with good psychometric and discriminative validity, and can be used to measure sexually related personal distress in Polish women with FSD with a cutoff score of ≥13.     

Arabic translation of Female Sexual Function Index and validation in an Egyptian population

IntroductionFemale sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a prevalent health problem thathas been inadequately investigated in the Arab world. An Arabic assessment instrument for FSD is urgently needed.AimTo validate the Arabic version of the Female Sexual Function Index (ArFSFI).MethodsThis is a cross‐sectional study conducted between January and April 2010. Eight hundred and fifty‐five women (16–60 years old) participated in the study. Validation was carried out on aspects of face, content, discriminant, and criterion (concurrent) validity. Construct validity was evaluated using principal component analysis. Reliability studies on test–retest and on internal consistency were conducted with Pearson correlation and Cronbach's alpha, respectively. The best cutoff point for the ArFSFI to differentiate cases and noncases was determined using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.Main Outcome MeasureParameters of validity and reliability of the ArFSFI and its domains.ResultsArFSFI total score and scores of various domains showed high test–retest reliability (r from 0.92 to 0.98). ArFSFI domains showed high internal consistency (α from 0.85 to 0.94). Six hundred and forty‐four women (75.32%) met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, criteria for diagnosis of sexual dysfunction while 211 women (24.68%) showed normal function. The ArFSFI was found to have good discriminant validity. There were significant differences between the mean scores of women with sexual dysfunction and those of women without sexual dysfunction. A total score of 28.1 was taken as the cutoff point for the ArFSFI to distinguish between women with FSD and women with normal function (sensitivity 96.7%, specificity 93.2%). The ArFSFI showed an excellent overall performance (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.985, 95% confidence interval 0.978–0.992).ConclusionThe ArFSFI is a validated, reliable, and locally accepted tool for use in the assessment of FSD in the Egyptian population. Anis TH, Aboul Gheit S, Saied HS, and Al_kherbash SA. Arabic translation of female sexual function index and validation in an Egyptian population. J Sex Med **;**:**–**.     

Evaluation of the Sexual Desire Relationship Distress Scale (SDRDS) in Women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

IntroductionThe Sexual Desire Relationship Distress Scale (SDRDS) was developed to address the need for a patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measure of sexual distress associated with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). The SDRDS is a 17‐item PRO that includes items related to personal distress and distress related to relationship with partner.AimThe aim of this article was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the SDRDS among women with HSDD.MethodsPre‐ and post‐menopausal women with HSDD or with no sexual dysfunction completed the SDRDS, Sexual Activity Questions, Female Sexual Distress Scale‐Revised (FSDS‐R), and desire domain of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) at baseline and 2 and 4 weeks later.Main Outcome MeasuresThe main outcome measures of this article were item performance, internal consistency, test–retest reliability, construct validity, known groups validity, and responsiveness of the SDRDS.ResultsData from 260 women were analyzed: 101 in each of the pre‐ and post‐menopausal HSDD groups and 29 in each of the pre‐ and post‐menopausal control groups. No differences emerged between pre‐ and post‐menopausal women. Least‐squares mean (±standard errors [SE]) SDRDS score was higher in women with HSDD than in women with no sexual dysfunction (43.1 ± 0.9 vs. 6.1 ± 1.7; P < 0.0001), supporting known groups validity. Individual item scores correlated with total scores (r = 0.7–0.9; P < 0.0001). Internal consistency was high, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.973 at baseline. Test–retest reliability was good, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.89. SDRDS scores correlated strongly with other measures of sexual distress and sexual function including the FSDS‐R and FSFI desire domain items. Preliminary analyses suggested that the SDRDS was sensitive to changes in clinical status.ConclusionsThe SDRDS provides a comprehensive and reliable assessment of distress due to decreased sexual desire in women with HSDD and may be a useful measure of treatment effects in clinical trials in women with this condition. Revicki DA, Margolis MK, Fisher W, Rosen RC, Kuppermann M, Hanes V, and Sand M. Evaluation of the Sexual Desire Relationship Distress Scale (SDRDS) in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. J Sex Med 2012;9:1344–1354.     

Validity and Reliability of the Arabic Version of the Female Genital Self-Image Scale

IntroductionFemale genital self-image is significantly related to female sexual function. It has been inadequately investigated in Egypt.AimTo translate the original English version of the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS) into Arabic and validate the Arabic version (AVFGSIS).MethodsValidation was carried out for the aspects of face, content, and criterion (concurrent) validity. Studies on test–retest reliability and internal consistency were conducted using Cronbach's alpha and Pearson correlation, respectively.Main Outcome MeasuresMain outcome measures were the validity and reliability of the AVFGSIS and its domains. Correlations between domain scores on the AVFGSIS and the Arabic version of the Female Sexual Function Index (AVFSFI) were assessed.ResultsA total of 244 married women aged 18–60 years participated in this study. There was a high test–retest correlation (r> 0.8). The AVFGSIS was found to have good face and content validity as a whole and for each domain. Significant positive correlations were observed with each domain of the AVFSFI: desire (r= 0.815), arousal (r= 0.861), lubrication (r= 0.855), orgasm (r= 0.820), satisfaction (r= 0.832), and pain (r= 0.884) (allP< 0.001).ConclusionsThe AVFGSIS is not only valid but also reliable, as much so as the original English version. In addition, female genital self-image was found to be significantly related to female sexual function.Mohammed GF and Hassan H. Validity and reliability of the A rabic version of the F emale G enital S elf- I mage S cale. J Sex Med 2014;11:1193–1200.     

Validation of the Swedish Version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) in Women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

IntroductionThe Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) has been validated for use in many countries. It has been used for clinical and research purposes in Sweden, but the reliability and validity of the Swedish version have never been tested.AimThe aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Swedish version of the FSFI.MethodsAfter informed consent, 50 women with a diagnosis of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) and 58 age-matched healthy volunteers completed the questionnaires.Main Outcome MeasuresReliability was tested by Cronbach's alpha and test–retest by Pearson's correlation, convergent validity by correlation of the FSFI and the Sexual Function Questionnaire (SFQ), divergent validity by correlation of FSFI and the Symptoms Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R), and discriminant validity by Student's t-test and chi-square test to assess differences between women with and without HSDD.ResultsCronbach's alpha was 0.90–0.96 and test–retest reliability was good (r = 0.86–0.93) for all domains in the whole sample; reliability was low for lubrication and pain in the control group. Correlations between all corresponding domains of the FSFI and the SFQ were high for the whole sample (r = 0.74–0.87) and moderate to high for both the clinical and the control group. There was no correlation between most FSFI domains and the SCL-90-R. Discriminant validity was very good for each of the FSFI domains (P = 0.001, t = 7.05–15.58), although the controls reported relatively low scores on the desire domain. The total FSFI score was 31.37 (standard deviation [SD] 2.66) for the clinical group and 17.47 (SD 5.33) for the controls (P = 0.001, t = 15.99).ConclusionThe Swedish version of the FSFI can be used as a validated and reliable instrument for assessing sexual function in women with HSDD. Ryding EL and Blom C. Validation of the Swedish version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. J Sex Med 2015;12:341–349.     

The Female Sexual Function Index: translation and validation of an Iranian version

IntroductionFemale sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a prevalent problem in the female population in Iran. A subjective assessment instrument that allows cross‐cultural comparison of FSD is urgently needed.AimThe aims of the study were to translate, validate, and enhance cross‐cultural comparability of an Iranian version (IV) of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)—the IV‐FSFI.MethodsA total of 448 women (19–54 years, mean 29.7, standard deviation 7.3) from five different Iranian outpatient obstetrics and gynecology clinics were eligible for this study. The IV‐FSFI was developed through forward and backward translation, revision by a research team, and a subsequent pilot study. After an interview for clinical diagnosis of FSD based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, all participants completed the IV‐FSFI for the validation study. Three hundred sixty‐two women completed the IV‐FSFI again, 4 weeks after the first visit.Main Outcome MeasuresTest–retest reliability was determined by Pearson's product‐moment correlations. Reliability was tested using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Construct validity was evaluated by principal component analysis using varimax rotation and by subsequent confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Discriminant validity was assessed with between‐groups analysis of variance.ResultsThe overall test–retest reliability coefficients were high for each domain of the IV‐FSFI (r ranging from 0.73 to 0.86) and the internal consistencies within the acceptable range (α from 0.72 to 0.90). Principal component analysis with varimax rotation revealed a best fitting five‐factor structure similar to the original FSFI (χ² = 2.1, degree of freedom = 17, P < 0.001). CFA confirmed the underlying domain structure, supporting the factorial validity of the IV‐FSFI.Conclusions.In conclusion, the newly developed IV‐FSFI has demonstrated to be a reliable and valid instrument with good psychometric properties that allows a quick and accurate preliminary screening of women with unknown sexual health status in clinics and other medical settings. Fakhri A, Pakpour AH, Burri A, Morshedi H, and Zeidi IM. The Female Sexual Function Index: Translation and validation of an Iranian version. J Sex Med 2012;9:514–523.     

The Test–Retest Reliability of the Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire

IntroductionThe Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ) is a disease-specific, patient-reported outcome instrument designed to measure the psychosexual consequences and treatment outcomes of Peyronie's disease (PD).AimThe aim of this study was to evaluate the test–retest reliability of the PDQ.MethodsAdult men with PD were recruited through eight clinical sites across the United States. Participants completed the PDQ during two study visits scheduled 7 (±3) days apart. At Visit 1, participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the PDQ, and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). At Visit 2, participants repeated the PDQ and completed an Overall Treatment Effect (OTE) scale. Test–retest reliability of the PDQ was assessed in a stable subsample (as determined by responses to the OTE). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to evaluate the degree of association between the three PDQ subscale scores at Visits 1 and 2. Internal consistency of the subscales was also evaluated using Cronbach's alpha.Main Outcome MeasureThe main outcome measure was the PDQ.ResultsOf the 61 PD patients (mean age 59.3) who took part in the study, the majority were not receiving treatment for their PD (n = 35, 57.4%). The sample's mean score on the erectile function domain of IIEF was 19.7 (±8.2), indicating mild–moderate dysfunction. Nearly two-thirds reported penile pain at baseline (n = 37, 63.8%). Of the participants with baseline PDQ data and who had engaged in vaginal intercourse in the past 3 months, 57 completed both study visits. The PDQ demonstrated excellent test–retest reliability in 53 stable patients. The ICC was 0.85 for the Psychological and Physical Symptom subscale, 0.89 for the Peyronie's Symptom Bother subscale, and 0.88 for the Penile Pain subscale. The Cronbach's alpha estimates for all three subscales were acceptable at the >0.70 level.ConclusionsThe PDQ is a highly reproducible measure of PD and can be an effective end point in clinical trials evaluating treatments for PD. Coyne KS, Currie BM, Thompson CL, and Smith TM. The test–retest reliability of the Peyronie's Disease Questionnaire. J Sex Med 2015;12:543–548.     

Validation of the erection hardness score

IntroductionErection hardness is a fundamental component of erectile function, and is a very specific and easily monitored outcome. The Erection Hardness Score (EHS) is a single-item, patient-reported outcome (PRO) for scoring erection hardness.AimsThe aim of this article is to report the psychometric validation of the EHS.MethodsThe dataset (N = 307) was from a multinational sildenafil trial (efficacy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction [ED]) with a 2-week screening phase, a 6-week double-blind, placebo-controlled treatment phase, and a 6-week open-label extension.Main Outcome MeasuresTest–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient), quality and distribution of responses, known-groups validity (ability to differentiate between ED severity groups defined by the International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF] questionnaire), convergent validity (Pearson correlation coefficients with domain scores of the IIEF and the Quality of Erection Questionnaire [QEQ]), treatment responsiveness, and clinically important difference.ResultsThe EHS demonstrated good test–retest reliability, acceptable quality and distribution of responses, known-groups validity against the IIEF (including clear differentiation between normal and impaired erectile function), moderate-to-strong convergent validity against the prespecified domains of the IIEF and QEQ, and high treatment responsiveness.ConclusionThe EHS has desirable measurement properties, including being highly responsive to treatment. This one-item PRO is robust and easy to use for evaluating erection hardness. Psychometric analysis supports the use of the EHS as a simple, reliable, and valid tool for the assessment of erection hardness in clinical trials research. Mulhall JP, Goldstein I, Bushmakin AG, Cappelleri JC, and Hvidsten K. Validation of the Erection Hardness Score.     

Validation of the Sexual Interest and Desire Inventory-Female in Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

IntroductionThe Sexual Interest and Desire Inventory-Female (SIDI-F) is a 13-item scale developed as a clinician-administered assessment tool to measure hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) severity in women.AimTo estimate the reliability and validity of the SIDI-F as a measure of HSDD severity.MethodsWomen, aged 18–65 years, with primary HSDD, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), or no Female Sexual Dysfunction (no FSD) participated in two nontreatment studies (in North America and Europe). On days 0 and 28, subjects were assessed using the SIDI-F, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire-Female (CSFQ-F), Locke–Wallace Marital Adjustment Test (MAT) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS).Main Outcome MeasuresDiscriminant validity, convergent validity, divergent validity, test–retest validity, and internal consistency of the SIDI-F.ResultsThe North American study enrolled women with HSDD (N = 113), FSAD (N = 49) and no FSD (N = 61); the European study enrolled women with HSDD (N = 130) and no FSD (N = 124). In both studies, mean SIDI-F total score for women with HSDD was lower than for those with no FSD (P < 0.001, for all) demonstrating discriminant validity. Further, mean SIDI-F total score for women with HSDD was lower than for those with FSAD in the North American study (P < 0.001). Convergent validity with the FSFI and CSFQ-F and divergent validity with MAT were demonstrated. Test–retest reliability and internal consistency were high.ConclusionsThe SIDI-F is a valid and reliable measure of HSDD severity in women. Clayton AH, Goldmeier D, Nappi RE, Wunderlich G, Lewis-D'Agostino DJ, and Pyke R. Validation of the Sexual Interest and Desire Inventory-Female in hypoactive sexual desire disorder.     

Female Assessment of Male Erectile Dysfunction Detection Scale (FAME): Development and Validation

IntroductionAlthough erectile dysfunction (ED) affects both members of the couple, no tools exist for the detection of ED by the female partner.AimThe aim of this study was to develop a scale for the detection of ED, as assessed by the female partner.MethodsDevelopment and validation of the Female Assessment of Male Erectile dysfunction detection scale (FAME) consisted of five stages: (i) two focus group discussions conducted among female partners of ED sufferers; (ii) item construction; (iii) initial content validation to document face validity and reduce number of items; (iv) final selection of items and investigation of concurrent validity and reliability, sensitivity and specificity of the scale in 83 Spanish-speaking couples; and (v) multicenter study conducted in a group of 106 English-speaking couples. Concurrent validity was assessed using Spearman's rho correlation coefficients between FAME and clinical diagnosis, the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM), and the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF). Reliability was tested using Cronbach's alpha, and sensitivity and specificity was investigated using clinical diagnosis as the gold standard criterion.Main Outcome MeasuresValidity, reliability, specificity, and sensitivity of the FAME scale when correlated with SHIM, IIEF-EF, and clinical diagnosis.ResultsQualitative analysis yielded 44 clues; 21 items demonstrated statistical significance as the best discriminating items using a t-test for independent samples. A final scale of six items was tested for validity, reliability, specificity, and sensitivity. FAME correlated significantly with clinical diagnosis (0.791, P < 0.001), the SHIM (0.788, P < 0.001), and the IIEF-EF (0.777, P < 0.001). Additional support for discriminant validity was obtained with receiver operating characteristics analysis. Cronbach's alpha was 0.941. Sensitivity was 96.1% and specificity 86.0%.ConclusionsAccurate detection of ED in men by the female partner is possible. In this study, FAME demonstrated concurrent validity and very good reliability, as well as excellent sensitivity and specificity. Rubio-Aurioles E, Sand M, Terrein-Roccatti N, Dean J, Longworth J, Eardley I, Brock G, Lee J, Arango de Montis I, and Rampazzo-Bonaldo C. Female assessment of male erectile dysfunction detection scale (FAME): Development and validation. J Sex Med 2009;6:2255–2270.     

Development and Testing of the Preparation for Labor and Birth Instrument

ObjectiveTo develop and assess the reliability and validity of a new instrument used during the third trimester of pregnancy to measure women’s confidence in their ability to achieve physiologic birth, the Preparation for Labor and Birth (P-LAB) instrument.DesignTwo-phase instrument development study that consisted of item generation and a prospective field test.SettingField testing occurred in five midwestern U.S. prenatal clinics.ParticipantsParticipants in the field test were 203 nulliparous and parous pregnant women who intended to give birth vaginally.MethodsPsychometric testing consisted of test–retest reliability testing and assessments of content validity, face validity, and construct validity. We measured construct validity using exploratory factor analysis and correlation with the Sense of Coherence Scale.ResultsThe 22-item P-LAB showed good content validity, good internal consistency, and stability over time. All items had content validity index scores greater than or equal to 0.8, and the total instrument content validity index was 0.95. We identified four factors related to women’s confidence in their ability to achieve physiologic birth: Planned Use of Pain Medication, Relationship With Care Provider and Supportive Birth Environment, Beliefs About Labor, and Labor Support (social and professional). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the four extracted factors were .93, .76, .73 and .74, respectively. Intraclass correlation [95% confidence interval] for the total questionnaire was .92 [.88, .94]. We found no linear association between total P-LAB scores and sense of coherence.ConclusionOur findings demonstrate acceptable initial psychometric properties for the P-LAB instrument. Additional testing is required to evaluate the instrument’s construct, convergent, and divergent validity.     

Development of the NIH PROMIS® Sexual Function and Satisfaction Measures in Patients with Cancer

IntroductionWe describe the development and validation of the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System^® Sexual Function and Satisfaction (PROMIS^® SexFS; National Institutes of Health) measures, version 1.0, for cancer populations.AimTo develop a customizable self‐report measure of sexual function and satisfaction as part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health PROMIS Network.MethodsOur multidisciplinary working group followed a comprehensive protocol for developing psychometrically robust patient‐reported outcome measures including qualitative (scale development) and quantitative (psychometric evaluation) development. We performed an extensive literature review, conducted 16 focus groups with cancer patients and multiple discussions with clinicians, and evaluated candidate items in cognitive testing with patients. We administered items to 819 cancer patients. Items were calibrated using item‐response theory and evaluated for reliability and validity.Main Outcome MeasuresThe PROMIS SexFS measures, version 1.0, include 81 items in 11 domains: Interest in Sexual Activity, Lubrication, Vaginal Discomfort, Erectile Function, Global Satisfaction with Sex Life, Orgasm, Anal Discomfort, Therapeutic Aids, Sexual Activities, Interfering Factors, and Screener Questions.ResultsIn addition to content validity (patients indicate that items cover important aspects of their experiences) and face validity (patients indicate that items measure sexual function and satisfaction), the measure shows evidence for discriminant validity (domains discriminate between groups expected to be different) and convergent validity (strong correlations between scores on PROMIS and scores on conceptually similar older measures of sexual function), as well as favorable test–retest reliability among people not expected to change (interclass correlations from two administrations of the instrument, 1 month apart).ConclusionsThe PROMIS SexFS offers researchers a reliable and valid set of tools to measure self‐reported sexual function and satisfaction among diverse men and women. The measures are customizable; researchers can select the relevant domains and items comprising those domains for their study. Flynn KE, Lin L, Cyranowski JM, Reeve BB, Reese JB, Jeffery DD, Smith AW, Porter LS, Dombeck CB, Bruner DW, Keefe FJ, and Weinfurt KP. Development of the NIH PROMIS^® Sexual Function and Satisfaction measures in patients with cancer. J Sex Med 2013;10(suppl 1):43–52.     

Validation of the Chinese version of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire short form (PISQ-12)

ObjectiveTo validate the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire short form (PISQ-12) in a Chinese population.MethodsThe PISQ-12 was translated into Chinese; 106 women with pelvic floor disorders then completed the questionnaire and the 12-item short-form health survey (SF-12). The reliability and validity of the PISQ-12 were analyzed.ResultsThe PISQ-12 had an adequate and high internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.725) and a high test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient coefficient = 0.745; P < 0.01). Scoring of the PISQ-12 was positively correlated with that of the SF-12 (P < 0.01). Factor analysis showed strong construct validity.ConclusionThe Chinese version of the PISQ-12 has a high reliability and validity in the Chinese population and, therefore, is highly recommended for clinical treatment and research.     

The Turkish version of perceived support and control in birth scale

Abstract

Objective: This is a methodological study carried out to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Support and Control in Birth Scale (SCIB).

Methods: This study included 339 post-partum women. The validity of the Turkish version of the scale was assessed in terms of content and construct validity. Reliability was evaluated using the internal consistency coefficient, the test–retest correlation coefficient and the item correlation between the subscales.

Results: The internal consistency coefficient of the scale was 0.84 (p?<?0.01). There were significant correlations between sub-scales (rho?=?0.122, 0.129, 0.263, p?<?0.05), and the test–retest correlation coefficient of the scale was also significant (rho?=?0.86, α?=?0.000). As in the original scale, a three-factor structure was examined, which explained 42.85% of the total variance. The model was verified by a confirmatory factor analysis.

Conclusion: The Turkish version of the SCIB is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring the perceived support and control during birth among Turkish women.     

Development and Validation of the Polish Version of the Female Sexual Function Index in the Polish Population of Females

IntroductionUnlike male sexual function, which is relatively easy to assess, female sexual function is still a diagnostic challenge. Although numerous new measurements for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) have recently been developed, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) remains the gold standard for screening. It has been validated in more than 30 countries. The FSFI has been used in several studies conducted in Poland, but it has never been standardized for Polish women.AimThe aim of this study was to develop a Polish version of the FSFI (PL‐FSFI).Materials and MethodsIn total, 189 women aged 18–55 years were included in the study. Eighty‐five were diagnosed with FSD as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM IV‐TR) criteria; 104 women did not have FSD. All subjects completed the PL‐FSFI at baseline (day 0), day 7, and day 28.Main Outcome MeasuresTest–retest reliability was determined by Pearson's product–moment correlations. Reliability was tested using Cronbach's α coefficient. Construct validity was evaluated by principal component analysis using varimax rotation and factor analysis. Discriminant validity was assessed with between‐groups analysis of variance.ResultsAll domains of the PL‐FSFI demonstrated satisfactory internal consistencies, with Cronbach's α value of >0.70 for the entire sample. The test–retest reliability demonstrated good‐to‐excellent agreement between the assessment points. Based on principal component analysis, a 5‐factor model was established that explained 83.62% of the total variance. Domain intercorrelations of the PL‐FSFI ranged from 0.37–0.77. The optimal PL‐FSFI cutoff score was 27.50, with 87.1% sensitivity and 83.1% specificity.ConclusionThe PL‐FSFI is a reliable questionnaire with good psychometric and discriminative validity. Therefore, it can be used as a tool for preliminary screening for FSD among Polish women. Nowosielski K, Wróbel B, Sioma‐Markowska U, and Por?ba R. Development and validation of the Polish version of the Female Sexual Function Index in the Polish Population of Females. J Sex Med **;**:**–**.