Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Nepali version of Sexual Interest and Satisfaction Scale (SIS): a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background and objective: Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) rank regaining sexual function as their top priority. Sexual dissatisfaction often leads to low self-esteem, reduced intimacy, and relationship difficulties and hence forms an essential part of the rehabilitation process. In Nepal, where people generally hold fairly traditional views about sex and sexual health, a sexual outcome measure that is culturally sensitive is a must for addressing sexual problems. No study has yet been carried out to investigate the impact of SCI on sexual attitudes and satisfaction in Nepal. Therefore, this study aims to translate and cross-culturally adapt the Sexual Interest and Satisfaction Scale (SIS) in the Nepali language.

Methods: (1) Forward translation: Three translators translated the English version of SIS into Nepali. (2) Synthesis: The three translated versions were synthesized into a draft version. (3) Expert committee review: The expert committee meetings were held to reach a consensus for a sensible and applicable pre-final version of SIS. (4) Pre-test: The pre-final version of SIS was tested on 25 individuals with SCI. Their opinions and comprehension were documented for each question, and subsequent modifications were made to form the final version of Nepali SIS (SIS-NP). The internal consistency of SIS-NP was calculated using Cronbach's alpha.

Results: The translation and cross-cultural adaptation segregated the questions into two divisions: first, which could be answered by everyone irrespective of their sexual partner status, and second, which could only be answered by those with a sexual partner. No changes were made to the original questions; however, essential clarifications and definitions were added. A total of 66 individuals with SCI participated to evaluate internal consistency with a median duration of injury of 9.5 years (IQR = 9.25). Unmarried participants accounted for 40% (n = 27). Internal consistency was found to be 0.74.

Conclusion: SIS was translated to Nepali, adapting standard recommended guidelines. SIS-NP demonstrated adequate internal consistency to be used in SCI.