What symptom might indicate atrophic vaginitis?

Atrophic vaginitis is characterized by the thinning and inflammation of the vaginal mucosa, typically due to decreased estrogen levels, which can happen during menopause or as a result of other hormonal changes. One of the hallmark symptoms of this condition is indeed the presence of thin vaginal mucosa, which can lead to discomfort, dryness, and painful intercourse.

Increased lubrication during intercourse represents a symptom opposite to what is experienced in atrophic vaginitis, where one would typically encounter dryness. Frequent urinary tract infections may occur secondary to atrophic vaginitis, but they do not directly indicate the condition itself. Lastly, menstrual irregularities are associated with hormonal fluctuations but are not specific indicators of vaginal atrophy. Therefore, thin vaginal mucosa directly identifies atrophic vaginitis, making it the most relevant symptom associated with this condition.