Psychometric properties of the Body Image Scale in women with benign gynaecological conditions

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Body Image Scale (originally designed for use in cancer) in women with benign gynaecological conditions.

Prospective completion of the Body Image Scale by women participating in the EVALUATE Hysterectomy Trial. The scale was completed pre-operatively, then 6 weeks, 4 and 12 months post-operatively. The psychometric properties were evaluated by assessing the reliability, response prevalence, discriminant validity and sensitivity to change. Factor analysis was also conducted to determine the scale structure.

The Body Image Scale showed good reliability and clinical validity. Differences between sub-groups of women were detected, demonstrating good discriminant validity. The Body Image Scale was shown to be responsive to changes in body image.

The Body Image Scale was shown to be a reliable and valid tool for assessing body image in women with benign gynaecological conditions and for use in clinical trials involving such women.