#Japan #Tokyo #Menopause #couples #FANCL

The Vital Role of Communication in Navigating Menopause Together

The experience of menopause is often perceived as a solitary journey, but recent findings from Fancl's survey suggest that fostering open communication between couples can significantly alleviate the emotional burden associated with this life stage. Launched on the eve of World Menopause Day (October 18), Fancl's initiative, 'FANCL MENOPAUSE ACTION,' aims to highlight the importance of awareness and understanding among couples dealing with menopause-related challenges.

The survey conducted in 2024 involved 100 couples—women aged 40-50 experiencing menopause and their husbands. The results were quite revealing. It seems that many couples refrain from discussing menopause, often believing that their partners would not understand their struggles. However, the findings indicate that this communication gap might actually hinder emotional support and understanding between partners.

Key Insights from the Survey

Low Communication Frequency

One striking insight from the survey is that approximately 65% of couples reported spending less than an hour together on weekdays discussing various topics. When analyzing the content of their conversations, it was evident that discussions predominantly revolved around their children (50%). Interestingly, while both men and women talked about children, women showed equal interest in discussing health and well-being topics, whereas men's focus skewed towards weekend plans and hobbies.

The disparity highlights a key issue: many women are eager to discuss their health concerns, particularly pertaining to menopause, yet their husbands may prioritize light-hearted discussions, which can contribute to feelings of isolation for the women.

Increased Understanding Through Dialogue

Before the communication sessions, less than half of the women felt that their husbands understood their menopause symptoms. Interestingly, only about 25% of men believed they grasped their wives' menopause-related struggles. Nevertheless, when couples engaged in discussions about menopause, every woman reported that her husband understood her experience, and 96% of men felt they comprehended it more deeply. This dramatic improvement underscores the power of dialogue in evoking empathy and understanding in relationships.

The Reluctance to Discuss Menopause

Perhaps one of the most significant revelations was the fact that 74% of women admitted they found it difficult to talk about menopause, often stemming from the belief that they wouldn't be understood. Conversely, only 25% of men acknowledged feeling a disconnection due to a lack of understanding regarding their wives' experiences. This disparity indicates a pressing need for improved communication avenues between the sexes to bridge this recognition gap.

Emotional Relief and Desire for Continued Conversations

Post-discussion feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 99% of respondents expressing relief and gratitude for having engaged in these conversations. A notable 68% of women felt lighter emotionally after the exchange, while over 90% expressed a desire to continue discussing menopause in the future. These findings illustrate how meaningful dialogue can not only foster understanding but also nurture a supportive and resilient partnership.

Conclusion: Why Communication Matters

The survey highlights that menopause is not just a health issue; it's an emotional one that can significantly affect relationships. The prevailing sentiment among many couples is a belief that talking about menopause is futile. Yet, simple conversations can be transformative, enhancing mutual understanding and leading to a more profound and positive connection.

At Fancl, we acknowledge the importance of communication in navigating life's stages, including menopause, and are committed to creating supportive environments where women and their partners can grow together. Our dedicated staff at our outlets offer valuable insights into beauty and health, ensuring that we stand by our customers as they navigate these transitions.

As we continue our outreach efforts to promote awareness and accommodate the challenges of menopause, we hope to nurture environments where everyone can lead fulfilling and healthy lives. This is not just about addressing physical symptoms; it’s about enhancing relationships and fostering emotional health. Through open conversations about menopause, we can break down barriers and pave the way for enriched partnerships that thrive even in challenging times.