The initiative, launched on January 14 to coincide with the festival of Makar Sankranti, was spearheaded by Meghna Bordikar, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, and represents a significant policy push to integrate menopause care into mainstream public health services.
A Holistic Approach to Mid-Life Health
Unlike general outpatient services, these dedicated clinics offer a one-stop model of care where women can receive:- Medical consultations focused on menopause-related symptoms
- Mental health counselling to support emotional well-being
- Screenings for bone health, hormonal balance, cardiovascular risks
- Medications, lifestyle advice, and follow-up guidance — all at a single facility within government hospitals and urban health centres.
Breaking Barriers and Bridging Gaps
By institutionalising menopause care, the Maharashtra government aims to fill a critical gap in public health that has historically left many women to cope with symptoms in isolation or seek disparate treatments. In addition to clinical support, the clinics place strong emphasis on counselling and emotional backing, helping destigmatise conversations around menopause and encourage women to seek help confidently.Minister Bordikar highlighted that menopause should not be viewed as a disease, but acknowledged the physical and emotional support many women require during this phase, making this initiative both timely and empathetic in its orientation.
Early Impact and Broader Significance
Preliminary reports suggest that the programme has garnered positive reception from women across the state, with many appreciating the focused attention and respectful care provided by the clinics.Health experts believe this model — which integrates preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic services under one umbrella — could serve as a replicable blueprint for other Indian states, advancing women-centric care beyond traditional reproductive health frameworks.
As Maharashtra leads the way, the initiative marks a noteworthy step in recognising menopause not just as a private experience, but a public health concern deserving structured support, clinical attention, and societal acknowledgement.