Helping Her Through Menopause: A Guide for Men

Menopause and All the Hormonal Changes That Come With It

Menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. It is a natural biological process that typically occurs between 45 and 55. However, it can happen earlier or later.

The main symptom of menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation.

Perimenopause, Menopause, and Postmenopause are the three stages of menopause.

Perimenopause

It is the transition period leading up to menopause, during which a woman's hormone levels begin to fluctuate. This stage can last several years. You can characterise it by irregular menstrual cycles. 

During this period, your wife might start behaving differently. It is crucial during this phase to observe and support the changes in her and to guide her through the process. She might find it difficult to comprehend her thoughts. 

Menopause

It is the point at which a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, marking the end of the woman's reproductive years. It also causes a woman to experience various physical and emotional symptoms.

Post-Menopause 

It is the stage after menopause, during which a woman's hormone levels have stabilised. Some symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, may persist during this stage.

It's essential to understand that every woman's experience of menopause is unique and that the symptoms and duration of menopause can vary widely. 

During menopause, a woman's body experiences a significant decline in the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. These changes in hormone levels can affect a woman's mood and behaviour in several ways.

So, it is always good to have some tips up your sleeve to add to your men's guide to menopause.

What Should You Expect?

A Kaleidoscope of Moods

An increase in feelings of irritability, anxiety, and depression are all common during menopause. These mood swings can be unpredictable and affect a woman's ability to cope with daily stressors. 

A Lot of Tossing and Turning 

Hormonal changes during menopause can also affect a woman's sleep. 

Hot flashes and night sweats, which are common symptoms of menopause, can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to insomnia. The said aspects can affect women's energy levels, concentration, and overall well-being.

A Lull in Your Sex Life

No, it is not because she does not find you attractive anymore. Temporary loss of libido is just another effect of hormonal changes during menopause. The decrease in estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse. And this can affect a woman's desire and ability to engage in sexual activity.

Mental Slip-Ups

Changes in hormones can also affect cognitive function. Some women may experience memory lapses or difficulties with concentration during menopause. 

A Lot of Drowsiness

Along with menopause comes an 'almost-always tired and drowsy partner.' The chirpy and vivacious soul you knew her to be might show zero interest in things. 

Also, it's essential to know that every woman's experience of menopause is unique and that the symptoms and duration of menopause can vary widely.

Can She Do It All by Herself? Or Does She Need Your Support?

She needs you!

A husband's understanding of menopause and supporting a partner during this phase is crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship. 

As we mentioned earlier, menopause can bring a wide range of physical and emotional changes for a woman. And it can be super challenging to navigate these changes alone.

Trust us when we say, 'An informed and supportive partner can make all the difference.'

A partner needs to understand that menopause is a natural and normal process and not a sign of weakness or illness. 

Ensure you take the best care of yourself and your partner during this time.

A Husband's Guide to Menopause

Here are a few menopause tips for husbands on how to be a supportive partner during this time:

Be Informed

Congratulations!

You are already on the right path. 

Being a supportive partner begins by understanding menopause and how it affects your Lady's body, mind, and attitude. 

This will help you understand why she did not want to get intimate the other night despite your efforts or why she lost her cool for no reason.

The more knowledge you have about menopause and the different symptoms she may experience, the better you can help her through her transition.

Be There

Yes. Just be there! 

When she is angry for no reason or wants to cry her heart out, hug her, be there and let her know you are her haven.

Comfort her when she has a nightmare or cannot sleep due to night sweats.

Be Patient and Empathetic

While she is adjusting to menopause, you may notice changes in her behaviour. Be patient and empathetic as she navigates this complex and nuanced phase of life. 

Especially in the intimate sphere, it is necessary to extend understanding and support, as her mood and libido may change.

Communicate honestly and openly, and approach challenges with compassion and understanding.

Be Supportive

Menopause comes with specific cognitive challenges. Your better half might need to remember the obvious, misplace things or make a calculation mistake. 

Instead, this could already be taking a toll on her self-confidence. 

Therefore, be supportive and help her restore that confidence by helping her gain clarity in her mind and find solutions to her problems.

Now is the time to be her superhero!

Be a Good Listener

Open and honest communication is critical to managing menopause as a couple. Encourage your partner to talk about their symptoms and how they are feeling. 

Sometimes, she needs you to listen. Just listen and let her know you understand her. She might not be looking for solutions or logical reasonings to her troubles, but your empathy.

Listen actively, and be understanding and patient.

Here are a few strategies that can help improve your communication with her:

• Openly discuss your feelings with her.
   
• Have conversations about sexual intimacy.
   
• Spend time together doing things you enjoy.
   
• Take time to appreciate each other.
   
• Talk about your sex life in a positive, non-judgemental way.
   
• Make time to have fun together- go for date night walks and have dinner together.
   
• Avoid making jokes or comments that can hurt your partner's feelings.

Keep the Spark Alive

Menopause can affect a woman's sexual function, and it's essential to maintain intimacy and connection during this time.

Understand your partner's physical and emotional changes, and try to find ways to keep the spark alive.

Let her know that she still makes your heart skip a beat.

Here are a few tips that can help:

• Communicate openly about your feelings and desires.
   
• Experiment with new positions and fantasies. Explore sensual touch or give each other massages. Be creative and try different intimate ways, like writing love letters or leaving each other surprises.
   
• Re-explore your body, as during menopause, women's bodies may change, and it is essential to re-explore and learn to appreciate new things.
   
• Remember to hug, hold hands and be present for each other much more.
   
• Embrace the change. 

Be Considerate

• Be supportive of your partner's needs. 
   
• If she is experiencing hot flashes, keep the bedroom cool at night. 
   
• If she feels tired, help with her work. 
   
• If she is experiencing vaginal dryness, be understanding and consider using a personal lubricant during intercourse.

You can do much more based on what your wife needs. Be considerate and let her know that through your actions.

But remember to take care of yourself, too!

The Importance of Self-Care

Menopause can be challenging for both partners, and taking care of yourself is also essential. Find ways to manage your stress, such as exercise or meditation. Talk to your partner about how you are feeling.

Seek Professional Help 

If necessary, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A counsellor or therapist can help you navigate the emotional changes that come with menopause and provide you with the tools to communicate effectively with your partner.

To Wind Up

Menopause may bring a storm of changes in your partner's life, but with your understanding, support and love, you can weather it together and come out stronger on the other side. 

Your wife is a warrior, and you are her shield; together, you can conquer anything.