How to REALLY explain the menopause to your husband

Dear MHI reader

‘Unfortunately, my husband and I (51 and 48) have been having disagreements more and more often lately. He then says that I’m just going through the menopause, but he doesn’t know the first thing about it. How do I best explain to him what the menopause is? And how do we get through it together?’ Sandra M.

Sound familiar?

Today we’ll show you how to explain the hormonal changes during the menopause to your partner. Because only if your partner really understands the causes and effects can he give you the best possible support during this challenging phase.

The reward? A deeper mutual understanding and a stronger partnership that can also overcome turbulent times.

Unfortunately, many couples fail precisely because of this: the partner usually has only a vague idea of what his wife is going through during the menopause. And instead of respecting her needs, differences of opinion are rashly blamed on hormone fluctuations.

The lack of dialogue is the main problem

The most common mistake is that couples don’t even talk about the menopause openly. Many women are shy about initiating the topic with their partner. And men often simply don’t know how to deal with it.

But this is fatal:

• Without understanding the causes, men feel helpless
• Unspoken needs lead to frustration on both sides
• Lack of communication destroys trust in the relationship
• The partnership suffers massively from the menopause

We will now show you step by step how you can improve the situation.

1. Explain the facts to your husband

The most important thing is that your partner understands exactly what the menopause means. Explain to him in simple terms what hormonal changes are taking place in your body and how this affects your well-being. You can also refer to our knowledge centre for more information.

Take your time and be patient. It may help to describe situations from your daily life in which you have experienced certain symptoms. This will help him to understand the effects better. Emphasise that the menopause is a natural process – not an illness. With the right support, you can get through this phase just fine.

1. Discuss solutions together

Now it’s time to find out what will help you through this transition. Perhaps you need more rest, exercise in the fresh air, or a change in eating habits?

Encourage your husband to make suggestions and find strategies together. Explain to him that he can help you enormously in this way – whether it’s by providing practical support around the house or just by being understanding.

Take your time to find the right solutions for both of you. Not all approaches will work from the outset, but with perseverance and mutual respect, you will make progress step by step.

1. Build a new familiarity

Ultimately, it’s about building a new familiarity in your relationship – especially now that so much is changing in your body and your life situation.

Talk openly about what is important to you right now. Ask your husband to listen to you without judging. Find out together how he can best support you.

With the right approach, the menopause can even be an opportunity for your relationship. It can bring you closer together and create a new intimacy. After all, facing challenges together makes you stronger.

Take the first step and start an open dialogue with your husband. Invest in your relationship now – you will be grateful to you later.