Treating the Symptoms of Menopause

September is National Menopause Awareness Month. Unfortunately, menopause doesn't last only a month. By 2030, there will be 1.2 billion women who are 50 or older and undergoing menopause. With menopause there are over 34 different symptoms. Some are obvious (think hot flashes and mood swings), and some are downright surprising (gum problems and changes in body odor, who knew)?

"Menopause is natural, and every female goes through it," says female sexual health expert Alyssa Dweck, MD, author of "V is for Vagina." "There is nothing that you can do to treat menopause itself -- to be clear, it's not an illness! What needs to be treated are the symptoms, which can be disruptive, uncomfortable and embarrassing." Dr. Dweck shares some of the key symptoms and easy fixes:

� Vaginal Dryness: Just because you're going through menopause doesn't mean you stop having sex. This symptom is one that's easily remedied. "Using a quality silicone lubricant such as Wet Platinum, can really alleviate painful sex caused by vaginal dryness," says Dweck. "The long-lasting, non-sticky formula provides the slipperiness that's lacking -- for a more pleasurable experience. And it's recognized as an accepted FDA medical device."

� Weight Gain: It can be difficult for many women to keep from gaining a little weight in menopause because of the decrease in hormones. Without sufficient estrogen, the body tries to maintain some body fat (especially around the belly and hips) so that it can convert testosterone to estrogen. "Even women who exercise regularly and have a low-glycemic diet can find it difficult to lose that last little bit without estrogen. In addition to weight-bearing exercise and proper diet, sometimes an estrogen replacement patch can help," says Dweck.

� Hot Flashes: Probably one of the most common symptoms, hot flashes, can flare up anytime and anywhere. Stay cool by wearing light layers of clothing with natural fibers, use fans during the day, and keep your bedroom cool at night. "Certain medications, specifically Effexor � and Brisdell�, are indicated for hot flashes associated with menopause," says Dweck. Many women who cannot or choose to not take hormone replacement therapy can benefit from these medications for relief of hot flashes.

� Night Sweats: Hot flashes often gang up at night, and can literally create a meltdown. Lowering the thermostat at night and using cooling sheets and pillows can alleviate the severity. "If you find that the night sweats are keeping you awake and you're having trouble sleeping, taking natural melatonin or the prescription medication, Ambien, can help you get a full night of rest," Dweck advises.

� Sleep Disorders: Lack of sleep can really take a toll on your body during menopause, impacting energy levels, emotions, weight gain, and libido. "Try to get as much rest as possible and also try to squeeze in a 20-minute power nap," says Dweck. "The more rested you are, the easier it can be to manage the full range of menopause symptoms."

For more information, visit drdweck.com