As society grows increasingly informed about the effects of menopause on women, it’s become abundantly clear that relationships are largely affected as well. Statistics show an overwhelming amount of divorces in the UK started by middle-aged women undergoing this life transition – making what has been dubbed ‘menopausal divorce’ a real yet unfortunate consequence for many couples today.
What is menopausal divorce?
A menopausal divorce is a divorce that occurs during a woman’s menopausal years. Over 60% of divorces in the UK are initiated by women in their 40s, 50s and 60s, ages when women are typically either going through perimenopause, menopause, or are post-menopause.
At any given time, the UK population is estimated to feature 3 million women experiencing menopause – a sizeable portion of the nation.
How common are menopausal divorces?
It is common for a marriage to break down during a woman’s menopausal years. In fact, divorce rates peak for couples aged 45 to 49 years old in the UK, with the average age for divorce being 43.9 for women and 46.4 for men (ONS).
Why does it happen?
Perimenopause and the menopause can be a tumultuous period for women, creating ripple effects in their relationships that are often difficult to navigate. These transformational stages involve physical, emotional, and psychological changes – making them an especially trying time not only for individuals but also couples.
As menopause progresses, the combination of physical and emotional elements can become overwhelming for many women – leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. These effects don’t have an end date in sight; as such it’s important to focus on managing them throughout this difficult period.
This period of change can cause new issues between spouses or highlight existing struggles.
77% of women felt menopausal symptoms affected their mental health, with 65% saying the menopausal years had negatively affected their relationship.
The survey revealed a loss of physical intimacy was the area of relationships most impacted by the menopause. And 50% of those polled worried that a lack of sex could lead to their relationship ending.
The survey also revealed that other key areas triggering relationship issues during menopause were a partner not understanding what they are going through, an increase in arguments, lack of communication, and growing apart.
Divorce ‘danger zones’
Major life-milestones can severely affect a marriage, such as pregnancy and menopause – often called ‘divorce danger zones’. These changes often have the power to disrupt relationships in profound ways.
However, these life-changes rarely directly cause the breakdown of a marriage. Typically, life-changes expose and magnify existing issues. If the relationship is already struggling, it may not have the resilience to survive changes and challenging times, such as the menopause.
In fact, you and your partner may have reached the stage where you no longer want to resolve things at all.
Sound advice when you need it most
Divorce is not a decision taken lightly. For many the breakdown of their relationship is gradual and has a multitude of reasons and contributing factors.
If you identify the menopause as a factor, there is support available.
Clear family law advice is essential and can help to take the strain at an already difficult time, making the process as straightforward as possible and helping to ensure the best possible outcome for you.
Family Law Solicitors in Manchester
Family Law Solicitors in Manchester Lund Bennett Law’s Manchester offices are situated in a historic part of Manchester near the Cathedral Visitor’s Centre on Cateaton Street and Shambles Square.
Mynshulls House is centrally located in the Central Retail District and easy to reach for visitors.
At Lund Bennett Law, we specialise in family law matters, providing legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances.
We offer complete transparency on pricing from the first consultation, where we will review your case and advise you on the next steps.