Cutting right to the heart of a man
For women, the menopause is a time of extreme change, both physically and emotionally, but for husbands and partners it can also be a very stressful time. Many men have difficulty understanding the fluctuating hormones, mood swings, hot flushes, lack of sexual desire, and other menopausal symptoms which may occur.
With all the changes taking place it can be frustrating for a man to figure out what to do, when everything he does or says seems to be wrong. Even in the most caring and loving relationships, this can be a recipe for disaster, which cuts right to the epicentre of a man’s masculinity.
A marriage or relationship may completely disintegrate because of a lack of understanding between the two of what they are each going through, albeit in different ways.
Psychological effects men may experience from partners going through menopause
We are all familiar with the changes menopausal women experience, but let’s look at some of the psychological issues men may have to deal with.
- Men don’t always know what to expect when they get home from work. Some days the partner is normal and calm, while other days her behaviour is erratic and aggressive. This leads to serious anxiety on a daily basis for the man.
- Men often feel guilty if emotional outbursts are directed at them, as they may take it personally, and get hurt in ways their partners never intended. Although they are usually the recipients of snappish behaviour, they are just bearing the brunt of fluctuating emotions of their partners.
- There is additional pressure on a man to take more responsibility in the running of the home, something his partner has always managed quite efficiently. This also adds to stress levels, which may be already very high.
- Perhaps the deepest cut of all is suddenly being spurned in the bedroom, where there were previously no intimacy problems. The resulting emotional turmoil may lead to lasting relationship damage.
Men can take comfort in the fact that most emotional symptoms such as moodiness, anxiety, and tearfulness, is mainly caused by a woman’s physical changes during menopause, and not by their partners or husbands. As traumatic as it may be to always take the full force of emotions running high, there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel.
How to survive your partner’s menopause
Although things might be in disarray at home, there are some ways you can help keep the peace, and get things back on an even keel.
- Prepare for irritableness and unpredictable moods from your partner by staying calm and not reacting in a negative way.
- Many women feel less feminine when they go through menopause, so be patient in the bedroom. Make her feel beautiful, loved and appreciated. Tell her you understand how she feels, and that things will get better with time. This is perhaps just what she needs from you right now.
- If she has not visited the doctor to discuss the menopausal symptoms, or seek help to ease the symptoms, encourage her to do so. Help is available which can help restore her equilibrium, quality of life, and sexual desire. If necessary, offer to accompany her. But if she would rather go alone, do not take offence.
- Mostly, be as patient and understanding as you can. It will help with mood swings.
You also need to help yourself
In the midst of all the trauma, you will have to stay strong to keep things intact, including your marriage or relationship. However, you may also be harming yourself by taking a lot of strain, and feeling depressed, anxious and stressed.
You might need to take some action to lower your own stress levels, which will help you to cope. Consult your doctor, if you think it will help.
Fortunately, menopause does not last forever. With the right treatment, your partner could soon be back to her old self, and the quality of both your lives can greatly improve.
We can help
When things begin to settle down, and there is improvement on both sides, it will not be long before you and your partner will be ready for intimacy. To enhance your libido and sexual desire for your sexual encounters – we can help!
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For more information about these exceptional products visit as at: www.herbalremedies.co.za to see how we can help you.