How to Talk to Your Partner about Perimenopause

Perimenopause can be a difficult time in a woman's life. While many unpleasant symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings, are associated with menopause, they typically begin during perimenopause. Perimenopause can take its toll, both physically and emotionally, so it is important to find support from your partner. Learn more about perimenopause and how to talk to your partner about what you are going through.

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What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the body's transition leading up to a woman's menopausal years. This transition can take anywhere from one to ten years before menopause occurs, typically beginning in a woman's 40's and 50's. During this time, a woman's body is experiencing hormone fluctuations, which can trigger unpleasant symptoms. Some of the most common menopause symptoms include: hot flashes, night sweats, loss of libido, depression, and mood swings.

The physical and emotional symptoms that occur during perimenopause, and the concept of a woman's impending fertility, can be a distressing and difficult time for a woman. In this time, you need your partner's support. Read on to learn how to discuss these issues with your partner, and how to talk to him about perimenopause.

Speak to Him about How You Feel

Menopause can be an emotional time. While it may seem easier to shut your partner out or try to hide the pain, don't do this. Open up to your partner about what you are going through. They can be there to provide the comfort and support you need, even if they don't fully understand what you are experiencing. By simply listening, they can help you cope with the changes you are enduring.

Tell Him about Your Physical Symptoms

Even though you are the one experiencing your physical symptoms, some of them, such as loss of libido or mood swings, can have a negative impact on your relationship if they are not addressed. Talk to your partner about some of the symptoms you are experiencing so they can better understand what you are going through.

Discuss the Options

There are a number of treatment options available to you, as you experience the effects of perimenopause and the menopausal transition. Some of these options include hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as well as alternative medicines and herbal supplements. It is important that you find the right one for you, your body, and your perimenopausal symptoms. Discuss these options with your partner, and together, you will find the right one that will help you.

For more information about perimenopause symptoms and the menopausal transition, click on the link below.