Instruments for assessing sexual dysfunction in Arabic: A systematic literature review

Area of Science:

• Sexual Health Research
• Cross-Cultural Psychology
• Psychometrics

Background:

• Studying human sexuality is complex, especially across diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Existing research on sexual health in non-Western countries, particularly Arab cultures, is limited and often based on small samples.
• A culturally sensitive approach is crucial for accurate sexual health research, considering the biopsychosocial nature of sexuality.

Approach:

• A systematic literature review was conducted to identify and compile validated Arabic translations of sexual health scales and questionnaires.
• Electronic databases were systematically searched to ensure comprehensive data collection.
• Eight instruments were selected, including those assessing premature ejaculation, male and female sexual function, genital self-image, and sexual distress.

Key Points:

• The reviewed instruments include the Arabic Index of Premature Ejaculation (AIPE), Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM), Arabic Female Sexual Function Index (ArFSFI), Arabic Female Genital Self-Image Scale (AVFGSIS), Arabic Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), and pelvic organ prolapse/urinary incontinence questionnaires (PISQ-IR, PSIQ-IR).
• The Arabic Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) was also included in the review.
• All selected instruments demonstrated good validity and reliability for the Arab populations studied.

Conclusions:

• The identified Arabic sexual health instruments provide valuable tools for research and clinical practice within Arab cultures.
• These validated scales help address the current gap in understanding sexual health in Arab populations.
• Further development of culturally sensitive instruments is recommended to enhance future research in this area.