A woman experiences vaginal dryness following childbirth. What hormone deficiency is most likely responsible?

• A. Estrogen
• B. Follicle-stimulating hormone
• C. Luteinizing hormone
• D. Prolactin

Answer: (A)

Vaginal dryness following childbirth is commonly associated with a deficiency in estrogen. During pregnancy, estrogen levels are significantly elevated, which contributes to the maintenance of the vaginal epithelium, lubrication, and overall vaginal health. After childbirth, especially during the postpartum period and if the woman is breastfeeding, estrogen levels can drop significantly. This decrease can lead to changes in the vaginal tissues, resulting in dryness, thinning of the vaginal mucosa, and discomfort during intercourse.

While other hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are involved in the menstrual cycle and reproductive function, they are not directly responsible for maintaining vaginal moisture. Prolactin primarily stimulates milk production during breastfeeding and does not contribute directly to vaginal dryness.

In the context of postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, low estrogen levels are particularly noteworthy because they can result in noticeable symptoms such as vaginal dryness. Addressing estrogen deficiency can help alleviate these symptoms.