Understanding Menopause: Its Impact on Women and t...

Understanding Menopause: Its Impact on Women and the Dynamics of Male Partners

By Oliver J.Vembo

One of the most defining moments in a woman’s life is the stage of hormonal changes commonly associated with hot flashes, mood swings, and decision-making challenges caused by physical changes.

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Typically occurring between the ages of 35 and upwards for some women, menopause is characterized by the cessation of menstruation and a decline in hormone production, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While the physical and emotional changes during this time are often discussed in the context of women, it is essential to recognise how menopause can also affect male partners and their relationships.

Menopause is divided into three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Perimenopause can begin several years before menopause, with symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings. Once a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, she is considered to be in menopause.

Postmenopause refers to the years following menopause, during which women may continue to experience some symptoms, though they typically begin to diminish over time. This phase can take 5-7 years, bringing significant changes to a woman’s life, which in turn can directly affect the men at home. In the Zimbabwean context, this phase can coincide with the peak of marriage or when children are teenagers, adding unique challenges.

Significant emotional and physical changes often accompany the transition through menopause. Women may experience anxiety, depression, and mood swings due to fluctuating hormone levels. Physically, symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness can occur, which may affect intimacy and sexual health.

While menopause is a female-centric experience, the impact on male partners cannot be overlooked. The changes that women undergo can lead to shifts in the dynamics of a relationship. Sometimes men may misconstrue these changes as threats to their role as fathers or husbands. Yet, menopause is a phase associated with change, and failure to understand these changes can lead to unnecessary conflict. These changes are fundamental and life-altering, so men must comprehend and support their partners throughout this journey.

Unlike marriage, few individuals or institutions are prepared to address menopause openly in the community and at work. Interestingly, a significant proportion of working women undergo these stages while balancing day-to-day work responsibilities, which can add to the challenges they face.

How Men Are Affected

As men, here are several ways in which they may be impacted:

Emotional Distress: Men may feel helpless as they witness their partners struggle with the symptoms of menopause. They might experience confusion, frustration, or sadness, especially if they do not fully comprehend the gravity of what their partners are going through. This phase can lead to tension in the household and even result in separation or divorce, though it is only a phase that partners are experiencing.

Altered Intimacy: With symptoms like vaginal dryness or a decreased libido, physical intimacy can be impacted. Men may feel that their partners are less interested in sex, leading to feelings of rejection or inadequacy. This period is not the time to seek substitutes but rather to reflect on the changes a partner is experiencing. Open communication becomes crucial to navigate these changes together, with both partners comprehending and supporting each other during this life-changing period.

Role Reversal: As women may become more focused on their health and well-being during menopause, men might find themselves taking on more household responsibilities or providing emotional support. In some cases, women may adopt coping mechanisms like spending more time in prayer, with friends, or excluding their partners, who might not fully understand the significant changes. This role reversal can shift relationship dynamics. Forming a “tag team” approach with one’s partner can help reduce tension.

Increased Communication Needs: Men may need to increase their communication efforts. Understanding the challenges their partners face can be difficult to navigate. These changes can impact a woman’s overall well-being and quality of life, making it crucial for her to seek support and understanding from her partner.

While menopause is a natural process for women, it can also profoundly impact their male partners. Understanding and empathy from male partners can make a significant difference in how women experience menopause at home and work. Communication is key in navigating this life-changing transition; open and honest discussions about symptoms, concerns, and needs can strengthen the bond between partners. Many divorces and marital tensions could be avoided with a commitment to communicate without apportioning blame. Menopause is one of the factors that should be openly discussed in relationships. Any alteration in a couple’s sexual intimacy has the potential to alter the relationship, so communication is essential and cannot be substituted by prayer.

Generally, men may look for substitutes when their female partner is going through menopause. Some men seek younger partners and neglect their long-term partners who are experiencing menopause. However, it is crucial to understand that women need support from their partners to avoid potential mental health challenges. Male partners can play a vital role in supporting their significant others through menopause. Simple gestures like offering a listening ear, providing emotional support, and being patient during mood swings can help women feel understood and cared for. Educating oneself about menopause and its symptoms can also help male partners empathize better and reduce domestic tensions.

Forums like couples’ fellowships, baby showers, and bachelor parties should address menopause openly rather than ignoring the realities of these changes. Men need to understand that difficulties with sleeping, insomnia, fatigue, hot flashes, anxiety, mood changes, reduced concentration, memory issues, migraines, urinary issues, and aches are part of this phase.

Menopause can be a challenging time for both women and their male partners, but it can also be an opportunity to strengthen relationships. Approaching menopause as a shared experience and working together can help couples develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other. The experience of menopause can vary widely: some women experience serious symptoms, some have none, and others have both physical and psychological symptoms. Some choose a medical approach to manage symptoms, while others rely on alternative methods.

It is recommended to consult a GP if a female partner is experiencing menopausal symptoms. Men in Health International is an organization that views menopause as a natural phase in a woman’s life that can significantly impact her and her male partner. By fostering open communication, empathy, and support, couples can navigate this transition gracefully and strengthen their relationship. Understanding the dynamics of menopause and the role of male partners is essential to ensure that both individuals feel supported and valued during this transformative time.