The Men’s Guide to Surviving Menopause

For most women, menopause is uncharted territory. 

For many, we go into puberty, fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum with some general knowledge about what to expect. Whether we learned about in school (remember “the period talk” in 5th grade science class), through friends (remind me again the difference between first base and second!), read a book (everyone’s’ favorite What to Expect When You're Expecting), or had open, honest conversations with female family members, your BFF, and your doctor - you were made aware. 

But what about menopause? So many of my clients had no idea that women can start menopause as early as 35, that it could last between 3-15 years, and that there are actual stages of menopause (peri, meno, and post)! You know why? Because no one really talks about issues related to midlife and “The Change!” 

We see it mocked on TV, in movies, or in memes. Making midlife women out to be crazy, dried up, and bitchy.  We see commercials for creams, patches, medications, and incontinence pads, but do we really know why we need any of those things?  

Who’s talking about the 70+ symptoms you may experience as your hormone levels change with age?  Who’s discussing what happens in the bedroom? Or all the physical changes? 

Not very many people, I'll tell you that!! 

So if women are pretty much clueless about this new season, how can we expect men to understand it?  This is for the men in your life - because when you're going through menopause, it can be a stressful time for them, too. But I promise, you can both survive if you know what to expect. 

Gentlemen >>> Here you go: 

Menopause isn’t just something your partner is going through—it’s a transition that affects both of you. The more you understand what’s happening, the more you can support her (and keep your relationship strong). Here’s your survival guide to navigating menopause like a pro.

Mood Swings & Patience (Yes, She’s Crankier—But It’s Not Personal!)

Thanks to fluctuating hormones—estrogen, progesterone, and even testosterone—your partner may have more ups and downs than usual. Some days she’ll be her normal self; other days, she might cry over a burnt piece of toast or get irritated at you for breathing too loudly.

What You Can Do:

Show kindness and patience. This isn’t about you—it’s biology.

Ask her if she wants to talk, but don’t push it.

If she needs space, respect it.

A little extra compassion goes a long way.

Sleep Struggles (And Why She’s Always Tired)

Insomnia, night sweats, constant trips to the bathroom, joint pain, and increased stress—these menopause symptoms can wreck her sleep. And you know what happens when someone is sleep-deprived? Crankiness, brain fog, and exhaustion.

What You Can Do:

Encourage her to rest when she can.

Help lighten her load—tackle some of her to-do list.

Be patient when she seems forgetful or irritable.

Make the bedroom sleep-friendly: cool temps, blackout curtains, and comfy bedding can help.

Intimacy & Hormone Changes (Why She’s Not in the Mood)

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: sex. Menopause can bring vaginal dryness, sensitivity, and a drop in testosterone (which affects libido). If she’s avoiding intimacy, it’s not you—it’s her hormones. But there are ways to navigate this together.

What You Can Do:

Make it comfortable for her to talk openly without judgment.

Encourage her to speak to a doctor—there are lubricants, creams, and treatments that can help.

Don’t underestimate the power of foreplay! More time warming up can make a huge difference.

Focus on other forms of intimacy—holding hands, cuddling, and simply spending time together keep your bond strong.

Confidence & Self-Worth (She Needs Your Reassurance)

Midsection weight gain, hot flashes in important meetings, and adult acne—menopause can take a hit on her self-esteem. She may not feel like herself, and she needs your support more than ever.

What You Can Do:

Compliment her! Tell her she’s beautiful, smart, and amazing.

Speak her love language—whether that’s acts of service, words of affirmation, or quality time, make her feel special.

Encourage her to take time for herself—whether it’s yoga, dancing, or a hobby she loves.

Remind her this is her caterpillar-to-butterfly moment—a time to step into her most authentic, confident self.

The Big Takeaway: Support, Communication & Patience

Menopause isn’t forever, but your relationship is. The best things you can do?

Offer support – Even a simple “How can I help?” goes a long way.

Accept and celebrate this amazing woman – She’s evolving into a stronger version of herself.

Communicate openly – Let her know you’re there for her.

Explore different forms of intimacy – It’s not just about sex; connection is key.

Seek help if needed – Doctors, therapists, and health coaches can offer valuable guidance.

Menopause is a transition, not an ending. If you show up with patience, love, and understanding, your relationship will come out even stronger on the other side. Now, go tell your partner how amazing she is!