The International Index of Erectile Function: development of an adapted tool for use in HIV-positive men who have sex with men.
BACKGROUND
Erectile dysfunction is common in HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). A standardized scale is needed to assess erectile function in clinical practice and research studies.


OBJECTIVE
The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is a widely accepted tool for assessing erectile function designed for heterosexual men. We modified the tool for MSM. We present an analysis of internal consistency of the questionnaire in an HIV-positive cohort.


METHODS
The adapted questionnaire included modified questions within each of the five domains of the IIEF: (i) erectile function, (ii) intercourse satisfaction, (iii) orgasmic function, (iv) sexual desire, and (v) overall satisfaction with sex. MSM at seven European HIV treatment centers completed the questionnaire.


METHODS
Responses were analyzed for internal consistency using standardized Cronbach's alpha values within each of the five domains. A factor analysis was performed to confirm the domain structure of the questionnaire.


RESULTS
Data from 486 MSM were analyzed. The factor analysis supported the domain structure described. Questions about erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual desire performed well, with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.82, 0.83, and 0.89, respectively. Questions concerning intercourse satisfaction were less consistent (Cronbach's alpha 0.55) because frequency of attempts at sexual intercourse did not correlate with other responses. Responses about satisfaction with sex with a regular partner diverged from satisfaction with overall sex life. Frequency of morning erections diverged from other aspects of erectile function, whereas erections with masturbation correlated better.


CONCLUSIONS
Internal consistency was high overall. This tool is suitable for HIV-positive MSM and can be used in screening, research, and monitoring treatment response.
Coyne
Katherine
K
Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, HIV/GUM Directorate, St Stephen's Centre, London, UK. kathycoyne@doctors.net.uk
Mandalia
Sundhiya
S
McCullough
Sonya
S
Catalan
Jose
J
Noestlinger
Christiana
C
Colebunders
Robert
R
Asboe
David
D
D000328:Adult; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005060:Europe; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D018451:Homosexuality, Male; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010410:Penile Erection; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012016:Reference Values; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires