Development of the Perineal Health Behavior Scale: Data from Rural Women in Huaning County, Yunnan Province, China

Purpose: To develop a set of Perineal Health Behavior Scale (PHBS) for adult female, and verify the reliability and validity of the scale. Methods The PHBS was developed using classical measures. The draft version of PHBS was compiled by semi-structured interview method ( N  = 8), Delphi expert consultation method ( N  = 5), and cognitive interviewing techniques ( N  = 20). A total of 1397 rural women from Huaning County were selected to participate in the survey. After items screening, the reliability and validity of final version of PHBS were verified. The influencing factors of perineal health behavior were explored by Multiple linear regression analysis. Results There were 11 items in the PHBS, including two dimensions – daily life (7 items), and sexual life (4 items). The scale had good structural validity, convergent validity, discriminant validity, content validity, internal consistency reliability, and split-half reliability. Multiple linear regression showed that suburban rural areas, higher education, and good family relationships were protective factors for poor perineal hygiene behavior ( P  < 0.05); High social pressure, irregular menstrual cycle, normal/less menstrual volume, and self-reported current genital tract infection are risk factors for poor perineal hygiene behavior ( P  < 0.05). Conclusions The PHBS was a reliable and valid measure to evaluate the level of perineal health behavior in adult female. In the work of health education and health promotion, we should focus on improving the perineal hygiene behaviors and habits of adult female in rural communities (especially remote rural communities).