Perimenopause is marked by subtle hormonal changes before the onset of menopause. Perimenopause can occur two to eight years before you have your final period, which marks the beginning of menopause. For some women, periomenopause brings lots of discomfort physically, mentally and emotionally, which can affect their husbands as well. Explaining what is going on with you can help your husband be supportive and understanding.
Step 1
Track your mood swings in relationship to when your period starts. Mood swings can be unpredictable or more intense in the beginning of perimenopause. However, keeping track of changes can help you identify a pattern, allowing you and your husband to plan how to handle your varying moods.
Step 2
Take time to discuss perimenopause with your husband. Menopause is a well-known part of a woman's life. Perimenopause isn't discussed as often because the changes are gradual and can last for years before periods finally stop. Schedule an uninterrupted time--when your mood is level--to discuss this topic with your husband, including what to expect and how long perimenopause might last. Encourage your husband to ask questions. Remember that what is happening affects your life together.
Step 3
Don't blame perimenopause for relationship problems. Mood swings and hot flashes can be irritating, but this is not an excuse for bad behavior. According to Gale Malesky and Mary Kittel, authors of "The Hormone Connection," the transition period of perimenopause might help put issues into perspective for you and your husband. Use this as an opportunity to gain insight into what both of you want out of the relationship. Gradually, your mood swings will lessen as your body grows accustomed to the changed hormone levels.
Step 4
Discuss treatment options with your husband. For example, if your mood swings are severe, a doctor might prescribe antidepressants to help stabilize your moods during this transition period. According to Dr. Louann Brizendine, author of "The Female Brain," more perimenopausal women report feelings of depression, irritability, sleep disturbances and mood swings than do menopausal women.
Step 5
Make suggestions to your husband if you are experiencing intimacy problems. Many women lose interest in sex during perimenopause because of a decline in testosterone production. Talk to your husband about possibly using lubricants, sex toys and testosterone therapy for you, making him part of the solution, Brizendine advises. Not talking with your husband about your decreased interest in sex can create other problems; for example, he might think he has done something wrong.
References
- "The Hormone Connection"; Gale Malesky and Mary Kittel; 2001
- "The Female Brain"; Dr. Louann Brizendine; 2007
