Preserving a Mid-Life Marriage
By Staness Jonekos
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Over 60% of divorces are initiated by women in their 40s, 50s or 60s - the menopause years - according to a recent survey conducted by AARP Magazine.
Experts say the number one reason for divorce is lack of communication. My response is, "When everything you know to be normal is being kidnapped by changing hormones, communication may be last on the list."
Eighty percent of women experience uncomfortable menopause symptoms and the majority struggle with midlife weight gain. The brain goes through changes too. Dr. Louann Brizendine, author of The Female Brain, says, "The mommy brain unplugs. Menopause means the end of the hormones that have boosted communication circuits, emotion circuits, the drive to tend and care, and the urge to avoid conflict at all costs."
If a woman is in an unsupported relationship while managing a collection of physical changes, leaving the marriage may feel like her only salvation.
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These Midlife Marriage Insurance tips can help menopause-proof a relationship.
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- Track menopause symptoms and discuss treatment options with your doctor.
- Make a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
- Update your beauty regimen.
- Communicate with your partner. Let him know what you need. He may be confused by your changes.
- If you are not happy in your current relationship, discuss counseling.
- Be receptive to creative adjustments in lovemaking activities.
- If your libido is low and/or you are suffering from vaginal dryness, discuss treatment options with your doctor. There are hormone and non-hormone options available.
- Success depends on teamwork. Both partners must contribute to have a successful marriage.
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Staness Jonekos is the author of Menopause Makeover
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