The impact of female chronic pelvic pain questionnaire (IF-CPPQ): a validation study

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the validity, reliability, and factor structure of the Impact of Female Chronic Pelvic Pain Questionnaire (IF-CPPQ).

Methods: This was a cross-sectional questionnaire study that was administered online. To be eligible to participate, women had to have experienced chronic pelvic pain (CPP) for a minimum of three months and be at least 18 years of age. A total of 969 women (mean age 35.4 years, SD = 12.0) took part. The main outcome measure was the IF-CPPQ. Additional validated measures that assessed related constructs were also administered. Principal axis factor analysis (PAF) was used to assess the factor structure of the IF-CPPQ. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Convergent and discriminant validity was assessed using Pearson correlations between factor scores on the IF-CPPQ and measures of related constructs. The consistency and model fit of the resulting factor structure wasa ssessed using confirmatory factor analysis.

Results: The final 26-item questionnaire comprised five factors (Psychological Impact, Sexual Impact, Relationship Impact, Occupational Impact, and Emotional Impact). Findings suggested good convergent and discriminant validity and internal consistency.

Discussion: The findings indicate that the IF-CPPQ is a reliable and valid measure of the impact of CPP on women. While the IF-CPPQ has the potential for multiple uses within research and clinical practice, further research is needed to determine the questionnaire’s ability to detect clinically meaningful changes with treatment.