Reviewed by Connie Casebolt, MD, MPH of Forum Health Greenville
If you live with women or have any close in your life, you may be used to the monthly hormone changes of a woman’s cycle already. Maybe you’ve started to hear about menopause symptoms or the women in your life are already in the thick of it.
Men, even though menopause isn’t happening to your body it does affect men and there are things you can do to help.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is a natural phase of life that every woman goes through, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. While it’s a biological process, it can bring a lot of emotional, physical, and psychological changes that can be challenging for the woman experiencing it, and for the loved ones around her.
If you’re a man with a partner, family member, or friend going through menopause, it’s important to support her during this transition. Understanding what she’s going through and learning ways to offer meaningful support can make a world of difference for both of you.
What Men Need to Know About Menopause
Menopause is not just about hot flashes and mood swings, though these are common symptoms. It’s a multi-faceted hormonal shift that affects everything from energy levels and sleep to sexual health and emotional well-being.
Here’s what you should know:
- It’s a Gradual Process. Menopause doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual transition, often beginning with a phase called perimenopause, which can start several years before menstruation stops completely. During this time, hormone levels fluctuate, causing irregular periods, mood changes, and physical symptoms that can last for years.
Understanding that this is a long-term process—not just a few bad days—can help you be more patient and empathetic.
- Hormonal Shifts Can Affect Mood. It’s common for women going through menopause to experience mood swings, anxiety, or even depression. These shifts aren’t a reflection of her feelings toward you but rather a result of hormonal changes that affect neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulate mood. Being aware of this can help you avoid taking things personally when she seems irritable or emotional.
- Physical Symptoms Vary. Menopause affects every woman differently. Some women experience severe hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances, while others might have joint pain, headaches, or changes in libido. These symptoms can impact her quality of life and leave her feeling exhausted or overwhelmed. Offering understanding, rather than solutions, can go a long way in showing your support.
- It Can Impact Your Relationship. Menopause can influence intimacy and sexual desire, often because of vaginal dryness, discomfort during sex, or low libido due to hormone changes. These issues can be sensitive, but it’s important to talk openly with your partner and reassure her that you’re willing to find solutions together.
Functional medicine approaches, like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and natural supplements, can often help address these symptoms and improve sexual health.
- Menopause is Both Physical and Emotional. Beyond the physical symptoms, menopause can bring up feelings of loss, anxiety about aging, and changes in identity.
For some women, it marks the end of their childbearing years, which can trigger deep emotional responses. Supporting her emotionally—by listening and offering reassurance—can be just as important as acknowledging her physical symptoms.
Explaining Menopause to Men
Watch the full video for more insights on supporting your partner through menopause.
Menopause Help for Men
- Listen Without Judging. One of the most helpful things you can do is simply listen. Women often feel misunderstood or dismissed when talking about menopause because their symptoms aren’t always visible.
By listening to her concerns and frustrations, without trying to “fix” everything, you show that you’re there for her, which can be a tremendous comfort.
- Learn About Menopause Together. Take the initiative to learn about menopause. This will not only help you understand what she’s going through but also show that you care enough to educate yourself on something that impacts her deeply.
Consider reading books, listening to podcasts, or attending a doctor’s appointment with her to learn about her specific needs and what treatments may help.
- Offer Physical and Emotional Support. Menopause can be physically draining. Simple acts of kindness like managing household tasks, encouraging her to rest, or suggesting time for self-care can be incredibly supportive.
Encourage her to prioritize her well-being, whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Emotional support also matters—check in regularly, ask how she’s feeling, and be there to offer comfort.
- Communicate About Intimacy. If menopause has affected your intimate relationship, it’s important to communicate openly about it. Avoiding the conversation can create distance and misunderstanding.
Instead, talk about how both of you feel and explore ways to reconnect physically and emotionally. There are solutions available, like lubricants, sexual health therapy, and hormone treatments, which can help restore intimacy and enjoyment.
- Encourage a Functional Medicine Approach. A functional medicine approach to menopause can be highly beneficial. Functional medicine focuses on treating the root causes of symptoms through personalized care.
This may include hormone replacement therapy, nutritional changes, stress management techniques, and lifestyle adjustments to help balance hormones naturally. Encourage her to explore these options and offer to support her in any treatments or therapies that align with her health goals.
What Husbands Need to Know About Menopause
Menopause is a significant life transition for women, but it doesn’t have to strain your relationship.
By educating yourself, offering compassionate support, and approaching the process as a team, you can help the woman in your life navigate menopause with confidence and ease.
Functional medicine provides a holistic, personalized approach to managing menopause, empowering women to feel their best during this phase of life. Remember, your support can make all the difference—show her that you’re by her side through every step of the journey.
Learn more about menopause and women’s health and find a Forum Health clinic near you.
