Women's Health

Gynecology for Guys

Report Cards

At the end of the class, Bekkar gives each guy a "supportive guy" diploma. At the bottom is a cartoon-like supportive guy, looking muscular in a Superman costume.

Smith, the originally hesitant student, was glad he came. He hoped to gain an understanding of what his girlfriend, 52 and menopausal, was going through -- and he did. He had already mastered some of Bekkar's suggestions: "I try to keep things as mellow as possible," he says. He also listens -- and reassures. His girlfriend was concerned that her symptoms, particularly her heavy menstrual flow, were getting in the way of the relationship. In true supportive-guy style, he reminded her that relationships aren't all about sex.

As for James, when his wife, Jan, learned he had sought out the class and enrolled, she says, "My first reaction was shock -- that they would have this class and that he would go. It kind of shocked me out of my denial [about menopause]. His going persuaded me to go to the doctor. And I was touched that he cared enough to go."