Montgomery, M.D., is an assistant professor and chair in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Drexel University College of Medicine.

During the interview, Montgomery discusses menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and irritability. He talks about the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy, including “natural” or “bioidentical” hormones to treat symptoms of menopause.

“They make you sleep better, they have a general sense of well being; for some women, it improves their memory and their ability to do complicated, intellectual tasks,” says Montgomery. “But for many women who have a strong family history of diseases which are affected by hormone therapy or who have very few menopausal symptoms, in fact it may be unnecessary or dangerous.” He suggests each woman discuss individual treatment options with their healthcare provider.

In addition, Montgomery gives advice on some natural and herbal remedies, including specific foods which are believed to improve symptoms of menopause.