Breaking the Silence: Menopause Awareness in India Needs Urgent Attention

Although the average age for Indian women to reach menopause is earlier than in the West, the lack of awareness and stigma surrounding this natural life stage leaves many women without essential support and treatment options.

Menopause, often overshadowed by the stigma of menstruation, continues to be a significant concern for Indian women, many of whom grapple with inadequate resources and support. Studies indicate that Indian women typically enter menopause a few years earlier than their Western counterparts, with the average age around 47. Notably, an increase in cases of premature menopause among women in their 30s and 40s has raised alarms among healthcare professionals.

Dr. Ruma Satwik, a gynaecologist at Sir Gangaram Hospital in Delhi, emphasizes that while menopause can occur between ages 44 and 50, the earlier onset observed in many women is attributed to nutritional, environmental, and genetic factors. However, due to societal taboos related to menstruation and menopause, many women lack the necessary information and support to manage their health during this transition.

Women like Sangeeta, a 43-year-old janitor from Delhi, express their struggles with debilitating symptoms, including hot flashes and fatigue, without knowing that help might be available in hospital clinics. Meanwhile, Mini Mathur, a 50-year-old TV host, found doctors often downplayed her symptoms and faced difficulties in receiving appropriate treatment, leading her to seek healthcare outside India.

With Census data predicting that by 2026, India will have approximately 400 million women over 45, there is an urgent need for increased awareness. Dr. Anju Soni, president of the Indian Menopause Society, stresses that women will spend a considerable portion of their lives after menopause, necessitating more focused attention from healthcare providers.

Despite the challenges, many women are turning to social media for guidance and support. Influencers like Dr. Mary Claire Haver and celebrities raising awareness about menopause have sparked discussions that traditional medical pathways often overlook. Women like Mathur are advocating for broader access to treatments that are currently scarce in India, such as hormone replacement therapies.

As many women face these life changes while managing careers and family, experts argue that healthcare discussions on menopause need to be as prevalent as those about fertility. Dr. Satwik proposes that training should be extended to healthcare workers in rural areas to ensure menopausal women receive adequate care.

The ongoing stigma and lack of resources present significant barriers for Indian women, underscoring the pressing need for comprehensive healthcare solutions that address menopause and perimenopause. Addressing these needs may involve improved medical education, government involvement, and community support to foster an environment where women can address their menopausal health with the seriousness it deserves.