Karnataka is planning to introduce a dedicated Women’s Health Policy, with menopause set to be one of its key focus areas, according to reports.

The proposed policy aims to improve awareness about menopause, promote early identification of symptoms and make healthcare and counselling more accessible to women during midlife.

Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader said the state plans to develop a comprehensive policy focused specifically on women’s health. The policy is expected to have a separate monitoring mechanism and an advisory committee comprising experts from the medical and social sectors.

As an initial step, the government plans to launch an awareness programme called Ruthuthare, which will focus on menopause and related health concerns.

The programme will educate women about menopause, nutrition, exercise, sleep, lifestyle changes and self-care. It will also seek to encourage families to better understand the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause.

According to officials, Karnataka has around 42 lakh women aged 40 to 60. While many women can manage menopause-related symptoms through lifestyle changes and counselling, an estimated 10-15% may require additional medical support.

ASHA workers will be involved in implementing the programme. Master trainers will first train district officials, taluk-level staff and ASHA workers. During household visits, ASHA workers will use a standard checklist to identify women who may be experiencing menopause-related symptoms and refer those requiring further evaluation to healthcare facilities.

The state is also considering establishing Mid-Life Women Clinics at district and taluk levels to provide counselling, specialist consultations and treatment. It is also exploring the introduction of DEXA scan machines to help assess bone health, which can become a concern after menopause.

The proposed policy could also extend to workplaces, with awareness programmes being considered for sectors such as IT and garment manufacturing. Employers may be encouraged to include menopause-related support in employee health benefits.

The government also plans to study why Indian women often experience menopause at a younger age than women in some other countries, with factors such as diet, stress, working conditions and lifestyle likely to be examined.

If implemented, the policy could provide a framework for bringing menopause and other midlife health concerns into mainstream women’s healthcare and could serve as a model for other states.

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