Menopause: A Partner's Survival Guide – The Dos & Don’ts Part 1

Menopause isn’t just a woman’s journey; it affects the people around her, too. If you're sharing life with someone going through it, the best thing you can do is be informed, supportive, and yes—sometimes just keep quiet and hand over the chocolate. Here’s a lighthearted but honest guide to help you navigate this phase together.

The DOs

DO Ask Questions- Your partner will welcome your interest in what she’s going through. Ask questions, get clued up to show your support and that you’re in this together.

DO Tread Lightly- Thanks to hormonal fluctuations, she may experience mood swings, low moods, or increased irritability. Be patient. It’s only temporary. Give her space when she asks for it or you feel the room temperature changing!

DO Share Your Feelings - Menopause isn't just about her. Talk about how you’re feeling too. You could be going through andropause. With a bit of patience and some lifestyle tweaks, you'll come through this stronger together.

DO Sleep with Extra Blankets - Hot flushes and night sweats are real. A cold room is essential (think: ice hotel in Sweden). She’ll toss, turn, and kick the covers off, just roll with it (and keep a blanket handy for yourself).

DO Avoid Weighty Issues- Due to the declining hormones, there are lots of hormonal changes, which tends to gather weight around the middle. Don’t make it a “thing.” If she’s cutting calories or stressed about her clothes not fitting her, cheer her on better yet join her. You might need it too!

DO Plan a Date Night- Go out. No strings, no agenda. Remind her why you love her and how amazing she is. Trust us, she needs to hear it.

DO Make Her Feel Beautiful - Menopause can shake a woman’s sense of femininity. She might feel “less than” some days. Compliments help. but keep them real. Don’t lay it on too thick.

DO Be Mindful- Everyone has good and bad days, and it's not always menopause. Sometimes she might need some time to herself. Be mindful of things that need doing around the house- just do them - Take the kids out so she can have some her time. Simple gestures go a long way.

DO Stay Optimistic about your bedroom activities - Her libido will return. Like you, she has testosterone, and like you, it declines, but much faster. Testosterone plays a big part in her sex and energy drive; coupled with the lack of estrogen, this creates dryness, and sex can become painful. As a couple, communication is key. Sex is not off the table, be creative, not selfish.

DO Ask Simple Questions- Get educated, but don't become the expert.

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DO Have Fun- No expectations, no checklists, just enjoy each other. Take the lead and plan something fun. Laughter is underrated medicine.

These simple actions might not fix everything overnight, but they show your partner that you care, you're trying, and you're in this together. Menopause is a natural process, not a disease, and with patience, empathy, and a little humour, you’ll come through it stronger, closer, and more connected than ever.