Temperamental and Character Traits as Risk Factors for Binge Eating Disorder in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Background/Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. It is associated with an increased risk of somatic and mental health problems. The prevalence of binge eating disorder (BED) in women with PCOS is higher than in the healthy population. The co-occurrence of PCOS and BED increases the risk of negative health outcomes and may worsen patient compliance. For both groups of disorders, specific personality traits have been described in the literature. The aim of this study was to assess temperament and character in PCOS women with and without BED, in search of specific personality traits that may distinguish PCOS patients with a higher predisposition to BED. Methods: 128 women diagnosed with PCOS according to the modified Rotterdam criteria were included in the study. All completed the Temperament and Character Inventory by R.C. Cloninger (TCI). The collected data were statistically analyzed. Results: The PCOS-BED subgroup was characterized by specific personality traits in comparison with PCOS subgroup: statistically significantly higher scores of harm-avoidance dimensions (in anticipatory worry, shyness, and fatigability subscales) and statistically significantly lower scores of persistence and self-directedness dimensions (in purposeful, resourcefulness, self-acceptance, and enlightened second nature subscales). Conclusions: PCOS-BED women have certain personality traits. Screening PCOS patients for the presence of certain personality traits could identify those at risk. PCOS-BED women may be at higher risk of health problems and treatment failure and may require a different therapeutic approach to treatment, including psychotherapeutic interventions.