Maharashtra's Menopause OPD Initiative Reaches 30,000 Women, Expands in Mumbai
Across Maharashtra, dedicated menopause outpatient departments (OPDs) have provided essential services to 30,000 women since January this year. Among these cases, 82 involved complications that required referral to specialist hospitals for advanced intervention, highlighting the programme's role in addressing serious health issues.
Mumbai's Accelerated Rollout Across BMC Maternity Homes
In Mumbai, the initiative is gaining momentum with operations across 25 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)-run maternity homes. So far, 408 women have been examined at these centres, which offer a comprehensive approach including both counselling and medical services. Executive Health Officer Dr Daksha Shah emphasized that this programme aligns with directives from the state health department, making the process more organised compared to previous counselling efforts.
Dr Shah further explained that Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) have been instructed to direct menopausal women to their nearest maternity home for care. At the BMC-run maternity home in Kalbadevi, staff reported that approximately 10 women sought consultation in the last month alone, indicating growing awareness and uptake.
Operational Details and Medical Insights
Officials from Suryakant Wagal Maternity Hospital noted that many women examined so far initially visited for other ailments before being redirected to the menopause OPD, which operates every Wednesday. In cases requiring advanced treatment, patients are referred to tertiary centres. Dr Nikhil Datar, a city-based gynaecologist, highlighted that medical interventions like Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may be necessary for certain patients, with therapies tailored to specific symptoms. However, he stressed that a major focus of such initiatives is on counselling and support to help women navigate this significant life transition.
Government Commitment and Future Expansion
Minister of State for Public Health Meghna Bordekar stated that these menopause clinics aim to ensure women receive proper medical guidance, treatment, and dignity. She announced plans to further expand the initiative and involve Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) to enhance outreach and accessibility across the state.
