Spanish Cross-Cultural Validation of the Electronic Version of the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5)

Abstract

The IIEF-5 questionnaire is a validated scale used as a diagnostic tool in erectile dysfunction (ED). This simplified version includes five items that focus on erectile function and satisfaction during sexual intercourse; it has favourable properties for detecting the presence and severity of erectile dysfunction The main objective of this study was to make a cross-cultural adaptation to Spanish of the IIEF-5 scale and to evaluate its psychometric properties of validity, reliability, and feasibility in the Spanish population. Validation of the IIEF-5 included: (i) professional translation of the scale; (ii) scientific evaluation of the translation; (iii) professional retranslation; (iv) assessment of 10 individuals to test correct comprehension and idiomatic adequacy; (v) validation of the IIEF-5 by an online survey. The study sample consisted of 100 participants, who received the online form either directly or through other participants who distributed it. Participants obtained a mean score of 22.3 (SD 2.7), implying normal erectile function. However, 23 results of mild dysfunction (n = 23) and 2 of mild to moderate dysfunction (5.1%) were identified. A Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.75 was obtained for the total of the final questionnaire, indicating high reliability. Validity analysis had a value of 0.784 (>0.5) and was therefore considered appropriate. The IIEF-5 scale is a reliable tool to test ED, and its Spanish version is satisfactorily understood by patients.