The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire (MSISQ-15): validation of the Italian version for individuals with spinal cord injury

Study design: Psychometric study. Objective: The aim of the study was to translate and culturally adapt the MSISQ-15 into Italian and to administer it to individuals with a spinal cord injury (SCI). Setting: Rome’s Wheelchair Rugby Team and three spinal units in Italy. Methods: Translation and validation of the MSISQ-15 were performed based on international guidelines. The questionnaire, which was in a paper and online format, was administered with the Short Form-12 Health Survey (SF-12) and the Spinal Cord Independence Measure Self-Report. Results: Sixty-five participants were recruited. Internal consistency coefficient of MSISQ-15 scale, assessed by Cronbach’s alpha, was 0.75. Test–retest reliability interclass correlations was, for example, 0.86. The construct validity was calculated and showed statistically significant results in relation to the mental health status investigated with the SF-12. Conclusions: The MSISQ-15 is a valid, reliable, and useful questionnaire for investigating how often the symptoms of an SCI interfere with a person’s satisfaction or sexual activity.