The Maharashtra government’s plan to introduce dedicated menopause clinics across public hospitals is facing on-ground hurdles, with several peripheral facilities in Mumbai yet to operationalise the service. While civic health officials claim clinics have been launched in maternity homes and hospitals, a mid-day ground report found otherwise. “We have informed all hospitals about the directive. Implementation is their responsibility,” said Dr Varsha Puri, deputy executive health officer.

The hurdles

Hospital heads, however, pointed to multiple challenges — a lack of gynaecology departments, infrastructure gaps, and no clear operational guidelines — that were slowing progress. Some said menopause care is already being offered within existing services, making separate clinics seem redundant for now. “We do not have a functional gynaecology ward yet. Once the new multispecialty building is ready, we can start the clinic,” said Dr Nitiraj Mane of Bhagwati Hospital.