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38 TOP COVER SPRING 2024

I was at the US Embassy on What about men? own personal concerns and how the
International Women’s Day and a male The term ‘Andropause’ is more increased communication at home has
officer said: “If my wife goes through clinically referred to as late onset now eased the tensions around their
it…” At which point I smiled and said: hypogonadism or testosterone partner’s menopause journey.
“Every person born female will go deficiency syndrome. This is not the Divorce rates are highest between
through this.” male equivalent of female menopause 45-55, and/or after 20 years of
His reply was: “Really??” Yes, really – it’s an acknowledgment of the marriage. Understanding what
– but not all have a difficult time. reduction of testosterone. Levels both parties are going through,
Approximately 80% of women will reduce as ageing happens, specifically improved communication and being
be affected by symptoms, and 20% of after the age of 40. It’s unlikely more empathetic might just save a
them will have significant symptoms. to cause major problems however relationship, a job, a life. It’s hard to
The three hormones mentioned awareness is needed, here are some accept the ageing process and these
above affect every part of the body and symptoms (see image below). changes in hormones, but seeking
mind, including heart health, bone
health and brain health. This can have
an effect on a woman personally, at
work, and in relationships.
Employers and colleagues need to
have an awareness and understanding
so they can empathise and signpost to
groups such as Menopause Matters,
The Balance App, Daisy Network,
and the British Menopause Society –
Police Support Group.
Mid Point 4 Women Ltd recently
delivered Menopause and Midlife
Awareness Workshops (in person) to
329 firearms instructors (307 men and
22 women) as part of their CPD. This
initiative was a first of its kind. I knew
some would think “Why?”, but as the
responses below show, the feedback
was overwhelmingly positive:
• It has made me more aware
of women and the day-to-day
struggles they silently face in the I have discussed a lot with male accurate advice and communicating
menopause journey. officers how much they are noticing with those around you is important.
• Be more considerate and changes physically and mentally. The Don’t become a divorce statistic,
supportive of those around me at expectation to burn the candle at it’s avoidable.
work and at home. both ends but keep going is taking a
• My wife is going through the bigger toll on them than it used to. Midlife challenges
menopause, this input has given The reduction in testosterone can We tend not to have to deal with
me the tools needed to support my have an impact on the flight and these when we are younger. Feeling
wife better. flight response. Some are finding as like we are out of ‘control’ doesn’t
• Really informative, would they are getting older, bodies are not lie right with most police officers
definitely recommend to others. responding to training, and the ability and staff, so strategies and coping
• Be more mindful around the to keep up with higher levels of fitness mechanisms are crucial.
unseen mental health symptoms is causing them additional concerns. Communicate with those who
associated with menopause. It’s important to understand what matter and who can offer you genuine
• I had no idea about the male is causing the changes and have support; discuss with colleagues and
changes; when the slide went up, checks done by medical professionals. signpost. Retirement can be daunting
the penny dropped – I will seek Following awareness workshops male for many, it might bring financial
medical advice. officers have spoken to me about their security, but feeling that you’ve lost

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