Shortcomings/strengths of specific sexual function questionnaires currently used in urogynecology: a literature review

Pelvic floor disorders are common and although not life-threatening, have a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life. Sexual health is an essential component of a women’s overall well-being. In clinical practice and research it is important that the symptoms and impact of these disorders are assessed in an objective fashion. The most valid instruments to measure the presence, severity, and impact of a patient’s pelvic floor symptoms on function and quality of life are sexual function questionnaires. Sexual function questionnaires range from ad hoc questionnaires to condition-specific validated measures. This review article will describe the shortcomings and strengths of a variety of validated sexual function questionnaires currently used to measure sexual function in women with pelvic floor disorders.