Relationship expert shares the three ‘crucial’ thing couples need to do avoid 'menodivorce'
Topics: Health, Life, News, Sex and Relationships
Niamh Shackleton
Featured Image Credit: Getty Images/Manu Vega
Topics: Health, Life, News, Sex and Relationships
A relationship expert has shared some 'crucial' advice to couples who could be on their way to getting a 'menodivorce'.
While general divorce rates are declining, a particular age group now makes up one in four divorces in America (as of 2019).
That age group is adults aged 50 and over and it just so happens that this is the age that a huge change happens for a lot of women: the dreaded menopause.
When some women are hitting this time of their lives, they're seemingly growing less tolerate of their spouses behaviors and leaving them as a result. This has since been dubbed as 'menodivorce'.
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One woman to have gone through this is Katy Viva, a mom-of-three who left her husband last year.
"I don’t know if [menopause] caused the divorce, but I will say that menopause made me unwilling to put up with the bullsh*t anymore," she told USA Today.
Now, if you fear that you could too be going through a 'menodivorce' then Claire Renier, a relationship expert at real-life dating app happn, says couples should focus on these 'crucial' things in particular.
"It’s crucial to have open and honest communication in this time period," Claire explained to UNILAD, adding: "Not all menopause symptoms can be easily alleviated, so simply being a supportive presence is one of the most important things you can do."
Claire went on to say of menopausal women: "Women going through this transition should feel comfortable expressing their feelings without judgement, and it’s key to be aware of your tone and language — particularly as she may be more sensitive than usual.
"At the same time, you should also feel comfortable voicing any concerns or frustrations. To avoid having any feelings of resentment build up, it’s worth having regular chats about how it is affecting you both and actively listening to each other."
Claire also advises that couples read up on menopause both together and separately.
"I’d recommend not waiting for your partner to explain everything, as taking the initiative to learn about her symptoms both provides you with the chance to support her as best as you can, but also shows her that you’re invested in her well-being," she continued.
Sex can sometimes go out the window when a woman is going through the menopause, so Claire says that as a couple you should find other ways to be intimate.
"If you’re a couple who previously had a more active sex life, it may be difficult if she doesn’t want to engage in this as much anymore," the expert warned.
Claire continued: "With this in mind, it’s crucial to separate sex from intimacy by focusing on non-sexual touch and connection. Small acts of physical affection, such as holding hands or cuddles, can reinforce your bond and provide new ways to connect physically."