Maharashtra Launches Special Menopause Clinics in Pune Hospitals
The Maharashtra public health department has taken a significant step forward in women's healthcare. On Tuesday, the department launched special menopause clinics across Pune district and other government-run hospitals. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive care for women experiencing physical and mental health issues related to menopause.
Weekly OPD Clinics for Menopause Care
State health officials have announced a dedicated plan for these clinics. They will hold a special OPD clinic every Wednesday. This weekly session will focus entirely on menopause-related symptoms and concerns. The clinics will operate at various healthcare facilities including district, sub-district, municipal, and select rural hospitals throughout Maharashtra.
At Aundh Civil Hospital in Pune, civil surgeon Dr. Nagnath Yempalle explained the clinic's structure. A team of three doctors, including a gynecologist, will counsel women about hormonal changes during this crucial phase of life. The medical team will address the various challenges women face during menopause.
Addressing Multiple Health Concerns
Dr. Yempalle highlighted the range of health problems women encounter during menopause. These issues stem from hormonal changes and include hot flashes, sleep disturbances, irritability, depression, joint pain, osteoporosis, and weight gain. There is also an increased risk of heart disease during this period.
"Women also face emotional distress likely due to menopause," Dr. Yempalle stated. "The transition to this phase requires counseling and adequate support." He emphasized that medical tests will be conducted as part of the comprehensive care approach.
The clinics will offer more than just medical consultations. "Apart from counseling on diet and lifestyle, support regarding mental health concerns and also guidance on vitamin supplementation will be provided," Dr. Yempalle added. This holistic approach aims to address all aspects of women's health during menopause.
Government Support and Public Health Concern
Meghana Sakore-Bordikar, Minister of State for Public Health and Family Welfare, has been actively promoting initiatives related to women's health. Her efforts include setting up dedicated menopause clinics across the state. A formal letter was issued to the state public health department, which has now initiated plans for these weekly clinics.
Various experts recognize menopause as a serious public health concern in India. According to national family health surveys, menopause-related issues are among the factors leading to hysterectomies performed for fibroids. This growing concern has prompted the state government to embark on this new healthcare initiative.
Expert Recommendations and Future Outlook
Indian Menopause Society members point out that symptoms and side effects of menopause can be bewildering for many women. They emphasize that a healthy diet combined with regular physical activity can make a significant difference in managing these symptoms.
Several experts have stated in their reports that a multifaceted approach is required to understand the needs of women in both urban and rural areas. The new clinics represent an important step toward providing specialized care that has often been overlooked or inadequately treated in the past.
The Maharashtra government's initiative marks a progressive move in addressing women's health needs during menopause. By establishing dedicated clinics with specialized medical teams, the state aims to provide better support and treatment for women navigating this important life transition.
