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Women: Maharashtra has taken a significant step in women’s healthcare by establishing the country’s first government-supported menopause clinics. These specialised facilities have been introduced across selected government hospitals and urban health centres to address the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges women often face during menopause. Officials say the initiative aims to provide comprehensive, respectful, and accessible care at a stage of life that has long remained under-recognised within public health systems.

Addressing a Long-Overlooked Health Phase

Menopause marks a natural transition in a woman’s life, yet it is frequently accompanied by symptoms that can affect overall well-being. Health experts note that women may experience hormonal fluctuations, sleep disturbances, anxiety, mood changes, bone density loss, and increased cardiovascular risks during this period. Despite its prevalence, menopause has often been treated as a private issue rather than a public health concern, leading many women to seek fragmented or delayed care.

State health authorities acknowledged that the absence of dedicated services had created gaps in diagnosis, counselling, and long-term management. The newly introduced clinics are designed to bridge this gap by offering focused care within the public healthcare system.

Comprehensive Services Under One Roof

According to officials, the menopause clinics provide a wide range of services in a single location. These include medical consultations with trained professionals, mental health counselling, and screenings related to bone strength, heart health, and hormonal balance. Necessary medications and lifestyle guidance are also made available, ensuring continuity of care without requiring multiple hospital visits.

By integrating physical and mental health support, the clinics aim to reduce the stress and uncertainty many women experience when navigating menopausal changes. Healthcare workers at these centres have received specific training to handle menopause-related concerns with sensitivity and clinical expertise.

Government Initiative Rooted in Women-Centric Care

The decision to establish menopause clinics followed repeated feedback from women’s health advocates and medical professionals who highlighted the need for specialised services. An official statement noted that the initiative reflects the state’s broader commitment to women-centric healthcare policies that extend beyond reproductive and maternal health.

The programme was formally launched on January 14, coinciding with the festival of Makar Sankranti, under the guidance of Minister of State for Health Meghna Bordikar. The timing was intended to symbolise renewal and well-being, aligning with the programme’s objective of supporting women through life transitions.

Emphasising Dignity and Support

Speaking at the launch, Bordikar underlined that menopause should not be viewed as an illness. She emphasised that while it is a natural biological phase, women often require physical care and emotional reassurance during this time. The clinics, she said, have been created to ensure women receive accurate medical advice, appropriate treatment, and a dignified healthcare experience within the public system.

Officials added that creating a dedicated space also helps normalise conversations around menopause, encouraging women to seek help without hesitation or stigma.

A First-of-Its-Kind Model for Other States

With this initiative, Maharashtra has become the first state in India to introduce menopause clinics at the government level. Health administrators believe the model could be adapted by other states looking to strengthen preventive and supportive healthcare for women in midlife and beyond.

Early feedback from patients has been encouraging. Officials report that women across different regions have welcomed the initiative, expressing relief at having access to specialised care tailored to their needs. Many have also highlighted the importance of mental health counselling as part of menopause management.

Looking Ahead

The state health department plans to monitor the performance of these clinics and assess their impact on women’s health outcomes. If successful, the programme may be expanded to additional facilities, further embedding menopause care into mainstream public health services.

By formally recognising menopause as a critical phase requiring structured support, Maharashtra’s initiative marks a notable shift in how women’s health is addressed within government healthcare systems.