A Methodology Study to Develop and Validate a Screener for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Postmenopausal Women

INTRODUCTION: Current methods for diagnosing hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) can be complicated and time-consuming. A previous study reported validity and reliability of a structured diagnostic method created for clinical trials that can be performed in approximately 1 hour. METHODS: A more succinct tool is needed for incorporation into busy physician practices. Therefore, a brief HSDD screening tool was developed consisting of four self-report questions with an interpretable cut-score and concise confirmatory physician interview. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Accuracy of the HSDD screener cut-score alone, and in combination with physician interview, was then separately evaluated when compared with in-depth interview diagnosis. RESULTS. The results showed good agreement between the two diagnoses (kappa of 0.669 and 0.562 for cut-score alone and cut-score in combination with physician interview, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The HSDD screener can reliably detect the likely presence of HSDD in postmenopausal women.