Abstract
BackgroundPolish physicians and researchers lack an extensive and precise instrument in their native language for evaluating sexual dysfunction in individuals with neurogenic disorders. The aim of this study was to create a culturally adapted, validated, Polish language version of the Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire (MSISQ-15) for persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury (SCI).MethodsInternational recommendations and standardized methods for instrument validation were followed. Sexually active patients with MS and SCI completed the MSISQ-15, International Index of Erection Function (IIEF-15, men), and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-31, women). IIEF-15 and PISQ-31 were used as reference questionnaires. Responses were collected at baseline (test) and after 2 weeks (re-test).ResultsWe recruited 299 Polish-speaking patients with MS or SCI. Interviews disclosed that the translated questionnaire had optimal content validity/cross-cultural adaptation. MSISQ-15 scores correlated significantly with the severity of sexual dysfunction as evaluated by IIEF-15 (r = − 0.487) and PISQ-31 (r = − 0.709). These correlations substantiated the high quality construct/criterion validity. An analysis of reliability presented good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha of 0.93 for the total score of MS patients and 0.86 for the total score of SCI patients) and reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.91 for the total score of MS patients and 0.92 for the total score of SCI patients). There were no ceiling or floor effects.ConclusionsThe Polish version of MSISQ-15 exhibited excellent measurement properties. It is a suitable and reliable instrument to assess sexual dysfunction in MS and SCI individuals. The Polish MSISQ-15 will enhance routine clinical practice and assist research for neurogenic patients in Poland.
Highlights
Polish physicians and researchers lack an extensive and precise instrument in their native language for evaluating sexual dysfunction in individuals with neurogenic disorders
Eight patients did not return the second set of questionnaires, two refused to complete the second MSISQ-15 questionnaire, one did not fully complete the second set of questionnaires, and one died from pneumonia
Two hundred twenty-seven (117 multiple sclerosis (MS) and 110 spinal cord injury (SCI)) persons completed the second set of questionnaires on average 19.8 days after the first set of questionnaires; we included these 227 individuals in the final analysis
Summary
Polish physicians and researchers lack an extensive and precise instrument in their native language for evaluating sexual dysfunction in individuals with neurogenic disorders. Sexual functioning is a part of life’s vitality Chronic neurogenic disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or spinal cord injury (SCI) may have profound, negative effects on sexual life [1]. Both conditions can induce many manifestations that interfere with sexual activity and sexual satisfaction. Vigorous concerted efforts of many different healthcare professionals are needed to ameliorate prospects and well-being of neurogenic patients. This goal requires thorough diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunction (SD) in this distinctive patient group. With respect to sexual problems of MS and SCI patients, those professionals badly need dependable, sound, and specific evaluation tools
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