Translation and validation of the Swedish version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R)

Abstract

Background: Optimizing women’s childbirth experience is essential for development of quality mother infant relationships. The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) can be used to measure birth satisfaction. Aim: The current investigation sought to translate and validate a Swedish version of the BSS-R. Method: Following translation, a comprehensive psychometric validation of the Swedish-BSS-R (SW-BSS-R) was carried out using a multi-model, cross-sectional, between- and within-subjects design. Participants: A total of 619 Swedish-speaking women participated, from which 591 completed SW-BSS-R and were eligible for analysis. Data analysis: Discriminant, convergent, divergent and predictive validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and factor structure were evaluated. Results: The SW-BSS-R was found to have excellent psychometric properties and hence is a valid translation of the original UK(English)-BSS-R. Important insights into relationships between mode of birth, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and postnatal depression (PND) were observed. Conclusions and implications for practice: The SW-BSS-R is a psychometrically valid translation of the original BSS-R and is suitable for use in a Swedish-speaking population of women. The study has also highlighted important dynamics between birth satisfaction and areas of significant clinical concern (i.e., mode of birth, PTSD and PND) in Sweden.