Italian-validated questionnaires for pelvic floor disorders: on behalf of the Italian Society of Urodynamics

Introduction: Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), which include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction and gastrointestinal disorders, affect over 20% of adult population. The prevalence and demand for care of PFDs appear to be increasing more quickly than would be expected from simple population growth, creating substantial physical and emotional distress and a large financial burden. Suitable diagnostic tools are necessary to investigate these problems. The aim of this article is to list Symptom and Quality of Life questionnaires [briefly identified as patient-reported outcomes (PROs)] formally validated into the Italian language to provide Italian clinicians and researchers a tool for the assessment of pelvic area dysfunctions in our country. A synthetic key points summary concerning concepts behind Symptom and Quality of Life Questionnaires will be also provided. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE databases and websites were used to identify Italian-validated questionnaires for PFDs. Once identified, the possibility to get a copy of the questionnaire was verified and steps to obtain it are reported in the table. Results: Questionnaires validated into the Italian language, for diagnosis and overall management of common urinary, vaginal, sexual and bowel conditions, are listed in the table. Conclusions: This format is intended to serve as a tool to promote appropriateness in PROs adoption while investigating PFDs in Italian patients.