Translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of the Genital Self-Image Scale (GSIS-20) for the Portuguese language.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this methodological study was to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Genital Self-Image Scale (GSIS-20) into Brazilian Portuguese.

METHODS

The cross-cultural adaptation followed a standardized five-step process: (1) initial translation into Portuguese by two independent bilingual translators; (2) synthesis of the translations; (3) back-translation into English by two independent native speakers; (4) expert committee review to ensure semantic, idiomatic, experiential, and conceptual equivalence; and (5) pre-test with 15 women to evaluate comprehension and cultural relevance. Subsequently, the psychometric properties of the adapted instrument were assessed in 148 women divided into three groups: nulliparous (n=53), primiparous without pelvic organ prolapse (n=52), and women with stage III or IV pelvic organ prolapse (n=43). The Genital Self-Image Scale (GSIS-20) was applied at three time points to assess internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), test-retest, and interobserver reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient), and discriminant validity.

RESULTS

All subscales of the Genital Self-Image Scale (GSIS-20) showed statistically significant differences between groups. The instrument demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.925) and reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.75).

CONCLUSION

The Genital Self-Image Scale (GSIS-20) was successfully translated and culturally adapted into Brazilian Portuguese, showing satisfactory psychometric properties for use in this population.