What symptom is a common indication of atrophic vaginitis in postmenopausal women?

Atrophic vaginitis is a condition that commonly occurs in postmenopausal women due to the decrease in estrogen levels. One of the hallmark symptoms of this condition is vaginal dryness. As estrogen levels drop after menopause, the vaginal tissues become thinner and less elastic, leading to reduced lubrication and hydration in the vaginal area. This dryness can result in discomfort, irritation, and even pain during intercourse, which significantly impacts the quality of life for affected individuals.

In contrast, other symptoms such as hot flashes and breast tenderness are more directly associated with hormonal fluctuations during the menopausal transition rather than specifically with atrophic vaginitis. Menstrual irregularities may occur during perimenopause as the body transitions toward menopause but are not indicative of atrophic vaginitis itself. Thus, vaginal dryness stands out as the key symptom specifically linked to this condition in postmenopausal women.