Menopause has emotional and physical side effects that could adversely affect a marriage. Most women experience menopause after the age of 45, although symptoms could begin earlier. During this time, husbands and wives need to take the necessary steps to cope with menopausal changes, so marriage difficulties won't arise. For many, menopause proves to be a difficult time for marriage, but a supportive husband can make all the difference.
Decreased Sex Drive
One of the most prominent menopause symptoms that can adversely effect a marriage is a decreased libido. According to data collected from the General Social Survey, married couples have sex an average of 58 times a year or once each week. Denise A. Donnelly, professor of sociology at Georgia State University and an expert on sexless marriages, explained that couples who have sex more are happier. During menopause, the level of sexual activity and intimacy can substantially decrease, which raises the probability of conflict and potential divorce.
Physical Changes
The Mayo Clinic states that one side effect of menopause is an increase in body weight and thinning hair. These physical changes in a woman can decrease self-esteem and can also affect the way the husband perceives his spouse. Marriages that are based purely on physical or sexual attractions are much more likely to suffer problems if weight gain and hair loss occurs during menopause.
Moodiness
Mood swings can have the most lingering affect on a marriage. Sometimes, neither the woman nor the man understand cope with moodiness. Mood swings are simply a result of hormone fluctuation. As hormones fluctuate, a woman can go from feeling incredibly peaceful to feeling enraged, and, unfortunately, this can leave a husband confused.
Considerations
Menopause not only affects a marriage it plays a role in various aspects of a woman's life and can affect all her relationships. Fortunately, most marriages get through menopause without dissolution. Couples should not feel like menopause is a crisis; it is simply a time a change.
Treatment
A woman can take steps to minimize the impact that menopause has on her marriage. Two prominent clinical remedies include hormone therapy and low-dose antidepressants. According to CNN News, the use of hormone therapy has dropped dramatically due to health risks that include ovarian cancer, breast cancer and heart disease. Lifestyle changes can also decrease the symptoms of menopause as well. Regular exercise, balanced diet and a sufficient amount of sleep are three changes women can make to decrease their symptoms.
Menopause Seminars
According to the book, "Your Guy's Guide to Gynecology," more men are attending menopause seminars, so they can become more knowledgeable about menopausal issues. Some men are confused about gynecological issues and need clarification on menstrual cycles, hot flashes, fertility and cravings. Informative books and seminars help close the information gap.
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