Mumbai Women Seek Help for Perimenopause Symptoms

A growing number of women in Mumbai are seeking medical help for perimenopause symptoms, previously dismissed as stress or ageing. Between January 14 and February 11, 2026, Maharashtra's 580 menopause clinics examined 31,288 women, with 30,034 receiving treatment and 82 referred for specialised care.

According to Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, perimenopause occurs when the ovaries produce lower levels of estrogen and progesterone, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood changes. She sees two to three women aged 40-50 weekly who are recommended Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) after evaluation.

The Indian Menopause Society's 2026 guidelines estimate that India had around 46 million women aged 45-49 in 2024, up from 30 million in 2011. This represents a 53% rise in the 45-49 female population since 2011. Perimenopause can begin years before periods stop and can last four to ten years, with factors including ageing, family history, smoking, obesity, stress, and certain medical conditions.

Untreated severe symptoms can affect quality of life and contribute to sleep disturbance, relationship difficulties, and bone-health concerns. HRT can reduce hot flashes and night sweats, improve sleep, mood, concentration, and mental clarity, relieve vaginal dryness, and support bone health in suitable candidates.

A 42-year-old Navi Mumbai marketing professional, Neha Sharma, sought help after nearly two years of fatigue, mood swings, disturbed sleep, and irregular periods. After HRT and lifestyle changes, she reported improved sleep, hot flashes, mood, and energy levels.

The rising number of women seeking medical help for perimenopause symptoms is a positive trend, indicating growing awareness about the condition. Doctors stress that HRT should be individualised by age, symptoms, medical history, risk factors, and preferences, alongside exercise, diet, adequate sleep, optimum weight, and stress management.

As the population of women in the 45-49 age group continues to rise, it is essential to provide accessible and affordable menopause care. The 580 dedicated menopause clinics in Maharashtra are a step in the right direction, providing treatment and support to women experiencing perimenopause symptoms.

In conclusion, the growing awareness about perimenopause is prompting more women in Mumbai to seek medical help, and doctors are responding with rising consultations and effective treatments. This trend is expected to continue, with a growing focus on providing accessible and affordable menopause care to women in the 45-49 age group.

The Indian Menopause Society's guidelines and the efforts of doctors like Dr Surabhi Siddhartha are helping to raise awareness about perimenopause and provide effective treatments. As a result, women in Mumbai are taking control of their health, seeking medical help, and improving their quality of life.

With the number of women in the 45-49 age group expected to continue rising, it is essential to prioritize menopause care and provide accessible and affordable treatment options. By doing so, we can improve the health and wellbeing of women in Mumbai and across India.

In the end, the growing awareness about perimenopause is a positive trend, and it is essential to continue raising awareness and providing effective treatments to women experiencing symptoms. By working together, we can improve the health and wellbeing of women in Mumbai and make a positive impact on their lives.

The importance of menopause care cannot be overstated, and it is essential to prioritize this aspect of women's health. By providing accessible and affordable treatment options, we can improve the quality of life for women in Mumbai and across India.

In conclusion, the growing awareness about perimenopause is a positive trend, and it is essential to continue raising awareness and providing effective treatments. By doing so, we can improve the health and wellbeing of women in Mumbai and make a positive impact on their lives.