Most women will experience perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms that can impact both their physical and emotional well-being. This can place strain on relationships, especially when menopause isn't openly discussed. However, with the right information and approach, you can support each other through this transition and embrace a new chapter together.
Understanding Menopause
Menopause is defined as the point when a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months. It occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs, leading to a decline in oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels.
There are four key stages:
Pre-menopause: Before any menopausal symptoms occur.
Perimenopause: Symptoms begin due to fluctuating hormone levels, but periods still occur (though often irregularly).
Menopause: When there has been no period for 12 consecutive months.
Postmenopause: The phase after menopause, when hormone levels remain low.
When Does Menopause Happen?
The average age of menopause in Australia is around 51, but it can happen earlier or later due to genetics, medical treatments, or health conditions (NICE, 2015). If menopause occurs before age 45, it’s considered early menopause; before age 40, it’s known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) (Woods & Mitchell, 2005).
Perimenopause can begin in the early 40s and last anywhere from a few months to a decade. Many women don’t immediately realise their symptoms are linked to perimenopause, attributing them instead to stress or a busy lifestyle (Born et al., 2008).
What Symptoms Might Your Partner Experience?
During perimenopause and menopause, fluctuating and declining levels of oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can cause a variety of symptoms. Some women have very few symptoms, while others experience multiple, sometimes severe, symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
Changes to periods (heavier, lighter, or more irregular before stopping)
Hot flushes (sudden waves of heat across the face and body)
Night sweats (waking up drenched in sweat)
Mood changes (irritability, tearfulness, anxiety, or depression)
Fatigue and sleep disturbances
Joint pain and muscle aches
Brain fog (difficulty concentrating and memory issues)
Low libido (reduced interest in sex due to hormonal changes)
Vaginal symptoms (dryness, discomfort, and painful intercourse)
Urinary symptoms (increased urgency, recurrent UTIs)
Hair and skin changes (dryness, thinning, acne, or increased sensitivity)
Some women may also experience less common symptoms like dizziness, tinnitus, gum problems, or an altered sense of taste and smell (Cheng et al., 2022).
How Are Perimenopause and Menopause Treated?
The most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which replenishes the declining levels of oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone (NICE, 2015). HRT is available in different forms and doses, and a healthcare professional can help determine the best option.
In addition to symptom relief, maintaining hormone balance can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cognitive decline, and autoimmune conditions (De Paoli et al., 2021).
How Might Menopause Affect Your Relationship?
Menopause can bring unexpected emotional and psychological changes, sometimes straining relationships. Mood swings, anxiety, and reduced libido can all affect intimacy and communication. Additionally, menopause often coincides with major life changes, such as children leaving home, career shifts, or caring for aging parents. Understanding these transitions can help navigate this period together.
How Can You Support Your Partner?
1. Educate Yourself
Understanding perimenopause and menopause is key. Read up on symptoms and treatments so you can offer informed support. Offer to attend medical appointments if your partner would like your company.
2. Be Patient
HRT and other treatments take time to work, and your partner may need to adjust her treatment plan before finding the right balance. Encourage a holistic approach, including diet, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
3. Don’t Take Mood Swings Personally
Menopause-related irritability isn’t about you—it’s about fluctuating hormones. Instead of reacting defensively, try to offer support and understanding.
4. Adapt to Changing Needs
Your partner may need more rest, experience social withdrawal, or have less energy for certain activities. Being flexible and supportive can ease this transition.
5. Address Intimacy Changes
Menopause can impact libido and physical intimacy. Vaginal dryness can make sex uncomfortable, but treatments like vaginal oestrogen and lubricants can help. Open communication and reassurance are important.
6. Make Time for Each Other
Find small ways to stay connected—whether it’s a short evening walk, a coffee date, or simply holding hands. Quality time together strengthens relationships.
7. Be Her Advocate
Encourage your partner to seek medical advice and explore treatment options. Advocate for her well-being by supporting her in conversations with healthcare providers.
Final Thoughts
Perimenopause and menopause are significant life stages that can be challenging but also
bring opportunities for growth and change. By approaching this time with patience, understanding, and open communication, you can support your partner in navigating menopause with confidence and positivity.
WA Menopause Clinic is here to help. If your partner is struggling with menopause symptoms, book an appointment today for expert advice and personalised care.
References:
Born L., Koren G., Lin E., Steiner M. (2008), ‘A new, female-specific irritability rating scale’, J Psychiatry Neurosci, 33(4) pp344-54.
NICE: CKS: Menopause
Woods NF, Mitchell ES. (2005), ‘Symptoms during the perimenopause: prevalence, severity, trajectory, and significance in women’s lives’, Am J Med. 118 Suppl 12B:14-24. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2005.09.031
Cheng CH, Chen LR, Chen KH. (2022), ‘Osteoporosis Due to Hormone Imbalance: An Overview of the Effects of Estrogen Deficiency and Glucocorticoid Overuse on Bone Turnover’, Int J Mol Sci. 23(3):1376. doi: 10.3390/ijms23031376
De Paoli, Monica et al. (2021), ‘The Role of Estrogen in Insulin Resistance’, The American Journal of Pathology, 191(9) pp1490 – 1498. doi:10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.05.011
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