A 56-year-old menopausal woman reports to the registered nurse that she has been experiencing vaginal itching, burning, and an increase in vaginal infections over the past 3 years. What important factor should the nurse consider before responding to the client's concerns?

A. The client's vaginal pH may increase during menopause – During menopause, estrogen levels decrease, leading to a higher vaginal pH. This disrupts the normal vaginal flora, making the client more susceptible to infections and irritation.

B. The client's dietary habits and fluid intake – While nutrition and hydration affect overall health, they are not the primary cause of menopausal vaginal symptoms and infections.

C. The client's genitourinary disorder will be alleviated over time – Without treatment (e.g., vaginal estrogen therapy or lubricants), menopausal atrophic changes usually persist or worsen, rather than resolve over time.

D. The client's history of sexually transmitted infections – While STIs can cause vaginal discomfort, the client’s symptoms are more likely due to menopausal changes rather than a past history of STIs.

A. Feeling anxious about the baby's health and well-being, but still able to care for the baby effectively
Mild anxiety about the baby’s health is a common experience for new mothers and does not necessarily indicate PPD. It becomes concerning if anxiety becomes overwhelming or interferes with daily functioning.

B. Experiencing occasional mood swings and irritability while adjusting to the new role of motherhood
Mood swings and irritability are normal postpartum adjustments, often due to hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities. These symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks.

C. Feeling overwhelmed and having difficulty sleeping due to the demands of a newborn
Feeling overwhelmed and sleep disturbances are common in the postpartum period due to frequent infant care needs. However, severe or persistent sleep disturbances, especially with loss of interest in daily activities, may indicate PPD.

D. Persistent feelings of sadness, severe fatigue, and loss of interest in activities, including caring for the baby
Postpartum depression is characterized by prolonged sadness, extreme fatigue, withdrawal, and difficulty bonding with the baby. These symptoms extend beyond normal postpartum blues (which typically resolve within two weeks) and require medical intervention, including therapy and possibly medication.