Italian validation of the pelvic floor Impact questionnaire − 7 (PFIQ-7)

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

This study aims to translate and validate the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire − short form 7 (PFIQ-7) in Italian, assessing its validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability.

Methods

The final version of the questionnaire was submitted to women referred to urogynecological outpatient care for genital prolapse or urinary incontinence and who either reported sexual disorders (controls) or not (cases). The questionnaire was translated into Italian using established procedural stages. Two weeks later, cases got the questionnaire for the test–retest evaluation. The non-parametric Wilcoxon test was employed to evaluate the variations between the case and control groups. Convergent validity was tested using the Italian version of the PFDI-20. The internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s Alpha. Using Cohen’s kappa, the degree of concordance/agreement was determined. The test–retest results for different individuals were evaluated for absolute agreement using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The study then included 45 women with a mean age of 38.0 ± 11.7 years who answered the questionnaire with no dropouts or missing items. Participants were categorized into cases and controls based on their self-reported symptoms. The questionnaire demonstrated significant construct validity by effectively distinguishing between symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Convergent validity testing with the PFDI-20 showed a strong linear correlation (F < 0.001) between scores. Internal consistency was excellent, with Cronbach’s Alpha values ranging from 0.90 to 0.93. Test-retest reliability was confirmed, with Cohen’s Kappa values ranging from 0.62 to 0.92 and intraclass correlation coefficients from 0.88 to 0.94, indicating high reliability.

Conclusion

The Italian version of the PFIQ-7 is reliable, valid, and consistent.