Karnataka's 'Ruthu Thare' campaign to address menopause at grassroots

The Karnataka government will soon launch a State-wide public campaign named 'Ruthu Thare' to support women dealing with perimenopause and menopause. The initiative, tentatively scheduled to begin on August 21, aims to reach women at the grassroots level with the help of ASHA workers.

A committee led by Dr. Jyotsna Mirlay, a noted gynaecologist and expert on menopause and midlife women's health, is finalising the policy framework. The committee includes gynaecologists, mental health experts, nutritionists, and physiotherapists from both government and private sectors.

Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader said that perimenopause and menopause are social issues affecting women in their 40s. He added that the campaign is part of a broader effort to build a healthy society by addressing menopause-related health concerns at the community level.

“We have decided to address health issues arising from menopause at the grassroots level by approaching women door to door with the help of ASHA workers across Karnataka,” Khader said.

The campaign will be implemented in two phases. In the first phase, ASHA workers will identify women going through menopause and record their health details using a structured questionnaire. Before the campaign begins, these workers will receive training on perimenopause and menopause.

Dr. Mirlay explained that the first phase will also include the distribution of a detailed pamphlet designed for easy understanding. The pamphlet will cover symptoms of menopause, physical and mental changes, recommended nutritious food, and simple exercises, all presented with pictorial representations that women can follow at home.

“Since the government has decided to include perimenopause and menopause screening as part of the Gruha Arogya health scheme, women will not only be screened, but ASHA workers will also follow up with them,” Dr. Mirlay said. She noted that changes in diet, exercise, and lifestyle can significantly improve the quality of life for these women.

In the second phase, ASHA workers will identify women experiencing perimenopause and those at risk of surgical menopause. This includes women who have undergone removal of the uterus and both ovaries, often due to heavy bleeding during perimenopause.

Dr. Mirlay highlighted that many women are unaware of the long-term health risks after such surgeries, including coronary heart disease and osteoporosis fractures. She said that alternative treatments exist for heavy bleeding, and ASHA workers will help identify such cases, facilitate treatment, and ensure follow-up care.

The launch of 'Ruthu Thare' follows the Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Department's announcement of a first-of-its-kind Women's Health Policy, with actress Divya Spandana as its brand ambassador. The policy aims to address various health concerns of women across the State.

The campaign is expected to empower women with knowledge and access to care, reducing the stigma around menopause and ensuring that no woman suffers silently due to lack of information or medical support.