What men should know about (peri)menopause

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(Peri)menopause: what men should know

(Peri)menopause is a major change in a woman's life. It's not just about physical complaints, but also about emotions, energy and relationships. When men understand what's happening, it can bring tremendous support and connection.

1. What actually happens?

   • Menopause = the moment when a woman has not had menstruation for a year. Usually around age 51.
   • Perimenopause = the transition period preceding menopause, often 5–10 years. During this period she may experience the same symptoms as after menopause.
   • Postmenopause = the rest of her life. Symptoms arise from long-term hormonal deficiency: osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, vaginal atrophy and recurrent urinary tract infections.

2. Physical changes

   • Hot flashes and night sweats
   • Difficulty sleeping
   • Heart palpitations and headaches
   • Weight gain, especially around the belly
   • Pain in joints or muscles
   • Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
   • Less desire for sex
   • Slower recovery after exertion

   These changes are largely physical in origin, but have a major mental impact. Women also want to enjoy intimacy and sex themselves and experience this as a loss.

3. Mental and emotional changes

   Hormones also affect mood, energy and concentration:

   • Irritability or mood swings
   • Fatigue
   • Concentration problems ("brain fog")
   • Sadness or anxiety
   • Less self-confidence

4. Relationships during this phase

   • Sometimes it feels like your partner is changing. It's about a hormonal phase, not rejection.
   • Listen without judgment. Recognition can mean so much.
   • Be patient with fatigue and mood swings.
   • Sexuality sometimes changes; talking openly keeps you connected.
   • Searching for information together or accompanying to the doctor can be a great gesture of support.

5. What can help?

   • Hormone therapy can relieve symptoms (in consultation with a doctor).
   • A healthy lifestyle is powerful: exercise, nutrition, sleep and stress reduction.
   • Talk about it, break the taboo. Together it becomes less heavy.

6. What men can do concretely

   • Learn about (peri)menopause: knowledge is support and understanding.
   • Ask: "What do you need from me?" instead of guessing.
   • Be understanding about fatigue or mood swings.
   • Live healthy together: walking, cooking, relaxation moments.
   • Keep talking about emotions and intimacy; connection remains the most important thing.

7. Why this makes a difference

   (Peri)menopause can be a major, profound period. With understanding and attention from men, a woman feels seen and supported. Going through this phase together strengthens your relationship, gives fewer misunderstandings and more loving connection

This information is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other qualified healthcare provider. Always consult your (family) doctor if you have questions or concerns about your health or treatment.