title: The International Index of Erectile Function: development of an adapted tool for use in HIV-positive men who have sex with men.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, HIV/GUM Directorate, St Stephen's Centre, London, UK. kathycoyne@doctors.net.uk
authors.forename: Katherine
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Coyne
authors.forename: Sundhiya
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mandalia
authors.forename: Sonya
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: McCullough
authors.forename: Jose
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Catalan
authors.forename: Christiana
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Noestlinger
authors.forename: Robert
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Colebunders
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Asboe
mesh_terms: 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