What specific indicators of atrophy might a physician look for when examining vaginal walls?
Answer
Paleness, fragility, and a lack of rugae
A clinical examination performed by a healthcare provider to diagnose vaginal atrophy involves assessing specific visual and tactile characteristics of the vaginal lining. When estrogen deficiency has been prolonged, the tissue loses its healthy appearance and structure. Signs that point toward atrophy include paleness, which reflects poor vascularization; fragility, indicating a weakened structure prone to tearing; and, notably, a loss of rugae. Rugae refers to the normal, natural folds or ridges present in healthy vaginal tissue; their absence signifies that the lining has become smooth, flat, and significantly thinned out due to estrogen deprivation.
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