Menopause is often seen as a women’s issue, yet its impact can ripple through every corner of a woman’s life, including her relationships—partners, family, friends, and colleagues. If you’re a man who lives, works, or spends significant time with a woman going through perimenopause or menopause, understanding this natural life stage is key to offering meaningful support.
Let’s face it—menopause can seem confusing and, at times, overwhelming. You may feel uncertain about what’s happening or even unsure of your role. This guide aims to demystify menopause, help you navigate this phase with compassion, and build stronger, more supportive relationships as a result.
First Things First: What is Menopause?
Menopause isn’t just a single moment—it’s a process. A woman officially reaches menopause when she hasn’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. Leading up to this is perimenopause, a phase that can last for several years as her hormone levels (oestrogen and progesterone) fluctuate.
This hormonal shift brings a range of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration for every woman. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” menopause experience, which is why empathy, patience, and understanding are so important.
Common Symptoms of Menopause You Should Know
The changes of menopause can feel bewildering—both for the woman experiencing them and those around her. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Hot flushes and night sweats – Sudden, intense heat, often followed by chills.
Mood swings and irritability – Hormonal fluctuations can impact emotional well-being.
Fatigue – Insomnia, night sweats, and hormone changes can leave women feeling exhausted.
Brain fog – Forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and fuzzy thinking are very common.
Joint and muscle aches – Oestrogen supports joint health, so women may experience more pain.
Vaginal dryness – This can cause discomfort, particularly during intimacy.
Weight gain – Changes in metabolism and hormones can affect body composition.
These are just a few of the most recognised symptoms. Others, like anxiety, heart palpitations, or a loss of libido, can also occur. For many women, menopause can feel like a rollercoaster that they didn’t sign up for—and it can be hard to predict what’s coming next.
Why Does Your Support Matter?
Navigating menopause can be a lonely experience, particularly if a woman feels misunderstood or dismissed. Your willingness to listen, learn, and show support can make all the difference.
In relationships: Menopause can affect intimacy, communication, and emotional connection. Your understanding can help reduce tension and build trust.
At work: If you’re a manager, colleague, or team leader, recognising menopause as a workplace issue will make your female colleagues feel valued and supported.
As family or friends: Being there for your partner, sister, mother, or friend—without judgement—creates a safe space for her to share how she feels.
Your support communicates that she’s not alone, and that’s incredibly powerful.
How You Can Support a Woman Going Through Menopause
Here are some practical ways you can show up and make a difference:
1. Educate Yourself
You’re already doing this by reading this guide—so well done! Menopause is a natural stage of life, not a “taboo” topic. The more you understand, the more supportive and empathetic you can be.
2. Listen (Without Trying to Fix It)
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is simply listen. Menopause can bring about frustration, sadness, and even grief for some women. If she opens up, let her talk. Avoid trying to “solve” her symptoms—just being there can mean the world.
Try saying:
“That sounds really tough. How can I help?”
“I’m here for you if you want to talk.”
3. Be Patient and Kind
Mood swings, exhaustion, and brain fog aren’t deliberate—they’re a result of her body adapting to massive hormonal changes. If she’s more irritable or forgetful than usual, try not to take it personally.
Instead, offer kindness and patience:
Help her remember appointments or tasks.
Step in with practical support around the house, like cooking or running errands.
4. Adapt to Changes in Intimacy
Menopause can affect intimacy in relationships. Vaginal dryness, reduced libido, and fatigue can make sex less appealing for some women, but it doesn’t mean she’s lost her attraction to you. Open, sensitive conversations about intimacy can go a long way.
Consider:
Talking openly and honestly, without blame or pressure.
Exploring ways to stay close emotionally and physically—like cuddling, massages, or spending quality time together.
Understanding that solutions like vaginal lubricants or medical advice might help improve comfort.
5. Encourage Her to Seek Support
While menopause is a natural transition, that doesn’t mean she has to suffer in silence. Many women feel better after seeking help from healthcare professionals, support groups, or specialists in menopause care.
You can support her by:
Encouraging her to book an appointment with her GP or a menopause specialist.
Offering to join her for appointments, if she’d like.
Helping her research treatment options, like HRT (hormone replacement therapy), lifestyle changes, or supplements.
6. Make Lifestyle Changes Together
Healthy habits can ease some menopause symptoms, and they’re easier to stick to when you do them as a team. Small changes can make a big impact.
Exercise together – Walking, cycling, or yoga can help with weight management, mood, and sleep.
Eat well – Focus on balanced, nutritious meals rich in protein, fibre, and healthy fats.
Prioritise sleep – Support her in creating a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.
Final Thoughts: Be Her Ally, Not Her Critic
The menopause transition can be a challenging time for women, but it’s also an opportunity to strengthen relationships through understanding and compassion. By being patient, supportive, and proactive, you can make a world of difference to her journey.
Remember, this isn’t about “fixing” her or dismissing what she’s going through—it’s about walking alongside her, learning as you go, and showing her she’s not alone.
The truth is, supporting her through menopause can bring you closer together, deepening trust and connection. And that’s something worth showing up for.
Want to learn more? If you’re a business leader looking to support female employees or a partner keen to deepen your understanding of menopause, I offer tailored coaching and workshops. Get in touch to find out how I can help.
Commenti