Vestibulodynia (former vulvar vestibulitis): Personality in affected women

Aim. There are very few studies regarding the personality in women suffering from vestibulodynia. Our former results showed increased levels of depression and state anxiety in these women (and their partners). In order to optimize treatment of these patients we wanted to assess personality and its association with depression and anxiety. Methods. Thirty women attending the vulva clinic for the first time were included at the time of diagnosis (vestibulodynia). The Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) was administered to assess personality, Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) to assess depression, State Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) to assess anxiety, and a questionnaire to assess clinical results. Results. Results showed that women with vestibulodynia have a personality profile with specific temperament and character traits. The results on the TCI temperament dimension characterized them as cautious, careful, insecure, and pessimistic. Results on the TCI character dimension indicated them to experience their own behavior and choices influenced out of their control or against their own will. The interaction of these factors may form a personality profile, resulting in an increased vulnerability in intimate relations and it could also be an important factor for state of depression and anxiety. Conclusions. The present results indicate the importance of identifying psychological factors in order to optimize the care of vestibulodynia patients and to relieve their symptoms and improve their situation. We therefore want to emphasize that vestibulodynia patients should always, in addition to medical examination and treatment, also be psychologically examined.