Breaking Silence on Menopause: The Struggles of Indian Women

With studies indicating that Indian women experience menopause earlier than their western counterparts, the lack of awareness and resources has become a critical concern for those facing its symptoms. Many women struggle while juggling responsibilities, often feeling unheard in healthcare settings, as they seek support for managing menopause.

Menopause, often cloaked in stigma, remains a significant yet overlooked issue for Indian women. Recent studies have demonstrated that Indian women typically experience menopause around the age of 47, with some facing premature menopause as early as their 30s. This contrasts sharply with the United States, where the average onset is slightly older at 51. As awareness around menstruation lags, conversations surrounding menopause remain scarce, leaving many women without the information or support they need.

Take Sangeeta, a 43-year-old janitor in Delhi, who began experiencing menopausal symptoms a year ago. Overwhelmed by daily responsibilities and debilitating symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, and pain, she felt hopeless until discovering a specialized clinic focused on menopause. Similarly, Mini Mathur, a prominent TV host in Mumbai, experienced a myriad of symptoms upon entering her 50s. After seeking help at multiple healthcare facilities, she finally found relief through progesterone cream prescribed by a doctor in Austria.

Dr. Ruma Satwik, a gynaecologist, and Dr. Anju Soni, president of the Indian Menopause Society, underline the urgent need for better resources and training in healthcare for dealing with menopause. India's demographic shows an increasing population of women over 45, projected to reach 400 million by 2026, which underlines the impending crisis if adequate measures are not taken.

Despite growing social media awareness—where women turn to online platforms for education and support—access to specialized care remains limited, particularly for those in rural areas. Many healthcare providers are either ill-equipped to address menopausal issues or adopt a dismissive attitude toward women’s concerns. Activist Atul Sharma highlighted the challenges faced by rural women, where help is minimal and often non-specialized.

In response to the ignorance around menopause among the medical community, Dr. Satwik advocates for more discussions and education similar to what exists for adolescent health. The lack of affordable treatment options exacerbates the issue, particularly for poorer women, leaving many to accept their symptoms without seeking help.

As the dialogue around menopause gains traction, it is evident that bridging the gap between information and access to care for Indian women is critical. Empowering women with knowledge and establishing healthcare frameworks for menopause discussion may help alleviate the silent suffering many endure.