Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is the primary treatment for vaginal atrophy?

1. Estrogen cream - transdermal or intravaginal

2. Vaginal lubricants

3. Hormonal therapy pills

4. Antibiotic therapy

The correct answer is: Estrogen cream - transdermal or intravaginal

The primary treatment for vaginal atrophy is estrogen cream, which can be administered either transdermally or intravaginally. Vaginal atrophy, often associated with menopause, results from a decrease in estrogen levels, leading to thinning, dryness, and inflammation of the vaginal tissues. Estrogen therapy helps to restore the normal thickness and elasticity of the vaginal lining, alleviating symptoms such as dryness and discomfort during intercourse. While vaginal lubricants can provide temporary relief from dryness, they do not address the underlying hormonal deficiency that contributes to vaginal atrophy. Hormonal therapy pills are a broader approach to hormone regulation and may not provide localized treatment for vaginal tissues specifically. Antibiotic therapy is targeted at treating infections and does not directly address the condition of vaginal atrophy, which is not primarily caused by an infection. Thus, estrogen cream is the most effective and targeted treatment option for this condition.