While periods are often considered to be a lone journey–solely to the person menstruating– your cycle can have a big impact on your partner’s daily mood and behavior as well. Be it coping with emotional shifts or trying to discover ways to speak about intercourse throughout periods. Clear and trustworthy communication throughout relationships is important. Here, we take a look at how menstruation may play a role in your relationships and share some tips for bonding better during this time.
What Should My Partner Know About My Cycle?
Knowledge is the first step to understanding; Menstruation is more than just physical symptoms; it involves a series of hormonal changes that influence mental health, mood, energy, and sleep.
- Mood Swings: The rise and fall of different hormones can result in irritation or sadness
- Physical Discomfort: Cramps, being bloated, and fatigue are common symptoms that can make anyone feel on edge.
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Mental Strain: Emotional changes during menstruation can increase sensitivity, anxiety, or even short tempers.
Understanding the root cause can make these moments easier for both partners to navigate.
Why Do I Always Fight with My Partner During My Period?
Given the extent of discomfort menstruators are in, it is evident that periods can be emotionally taxing too. You may find yourself fighting with those around you more often thus putting additional strains on relationships. They may happen more frequently during menstruation because of:
1. Miscommunication: Hormonal changes can make it difficult to articulate emotions calmly.
2. Misinterpretation: Partners may misread mood swings as frustration directed towards them.
3. Stress Amplification: Physical discomfort can make minor annoyances feel major.
How to Handle Emotional Changes During Menstruation
Managing emotional changes requires both personal awareness and your partner’s support. Here’s how:
For You
- Self-Care Rituals: Make time for activities that calm and centre you, such as yoga, journaling, or taking a warm bath.
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Recognise Triggers: Understanding your cycle can help you anticipate emotional peaks and address them proactively.
Taking time for relaxing activities during your period can help ease your mind
For Your Partner
- Empathy First: Simply acknowledging your menstruating partner’s feelings can make them feel more understood and less alone.
- Practical Support: Small gestures like making tea, running errands, or offering a heating pad can speak volumes.
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Avoid Judgement: Periods are temporary, but your responses during this time will leave a lasting impact.
Communication in Relationships During Periods
Why Communication Matters
A lack of communication can increase tension during menstruation. Partners who don’t understand the impact of hormonal changes might unintentionally minimise or dismiss the experience, leading to resentment.
Tips for Better Communication
- Normalise Period Talk:
Share details about your cycle and how it affects you emotionally and physically.
- Use ‘I’ Statements:
Instead of saying, “You don’t understand,” say, “I feel unsupported when my feelings aren’t acknowledged.”
- Reassure your partner:
Use statements like, “I’m feeling overwhelmed right now because of my period; it’s not about you.” This can prevent misunderstandings.
- Check In Regularly:
Ask each other questions like:
- “How can I support you?”
- “Are you feeling okay?”
How Can I Help My Partner During Periods?
If you’re looking for a way to support your menstruating partner here are a few things that make a difference and strengthen relationships-
- Listen Actively: Sometimes, just listening without offering solutions is enough.
- Offer Practical Help: Whether it’s cooking a meal, fetching snacks, or tidying up, these gestures show you care.
- Learn Together: Educate yourself about the menstrual cycle to better understand your partner’s experience.
- Explore Intimacy: While the topic of sex during periods might feel taboo, it’s essential to have an open conversation about it. Intimacy can release endorphins (natural mood boosters) which can ease cramps and lift spirits. The key is mutual consent and clear communication about comfort levels.
Small Acts of Kindness, Big Impacts on Relationships
Periods may be a monthly challenge, but they don’t have to strain your relationship. With the right communication, empathy, and understanding of emotional and hormonal changes, you and your partner can tackle this together. Remember, a little kindness and openness can go a long way in building a strong, supportive bond—even during “that time of the month”.
Sources :
Healthline - Tips for Partners During Periods
Verywell Mind - Hormones and Emotions
