NEW DELHI / October 15, 2025: More and more women in their late 30s or early 40s in India are entering perimenopause – the natural transitional phase leading up to menopause marked by hormonal fluctuations – earlier than expected. Factors such as chronic stress, poor sleep, sedentary lifestyles, nutritional deficiencies, smoking, and untreated hormonal disorders such as PCOS are contributing to premature menopause. Environmental toxins and rising cases of obesity are also playing a role in triggering this trend of premature menopause among Indian women. This was said by Dr. Shweta Mendiratta, Associate Director - Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Marengo Asia Hospital, Faridabad, ahead of the World Menopause Day.

Dr. Shweta Mendiratta said: “In India, about 150 million women are above the age of 45, with most of them approaching or already experiencing menopause. On average, Indian women experience menopause at the age of 46-47 years, which is several years earlier than women in Western countries. Despite this, awareness remains low and most women in India don’t seek medical advice until menopause begins affecting their quality of life severely.”

Talking about the most common symptoms of menopause, she said: “Hot flashes, irregular periods, mood swings, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, and weight gain are common symptoms. What’s worrying is that these symptoms are becoming more intense and prolonged, often affecting work performance and mental health. Many women today juggle professional and family responsibilities, which amplifies stress and worsens hormonal imbalance.”

Dr. Shweta Mendiratta cautioned that menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, thyroid imbalance, and depression. The decline in estrogen levels in the body affects not just a woman’s reproductive health but also her bones, metabolism, and the cardiovascular system. Hormonal changes during menopause can trigger mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression. It’s not just physical — it’s an emotional transition too. Women often assume these symptoms as “just ageing” and delay seeing a doctor until complications arise.

Dr. Shweta Mendiratta said: “Ignoring menopause-related issues in the long-term can lead to bone loss, increased fracture risk, cardiovascular disease, chronic fatigue, and sexual health concerns. Over time, untreated insomnia and anxiety can also raise the risk of cognitive decline. Managing symptoms early ensures women age gracefully and healthily. Women should start monitoring their hormonal health after 35, especially if they notice changes in menstrual cycles, energy levels, or mood. Regular checkups, including thyroid, vitamin D, and lipid profile assessments, can help detect early changes.”

Yet, menopause remains a taboo topic in India that is rarely talked about. Many women still associate it with “the end of womanhood,” leading to silence and stigma. This lack of discussion prevents timely care. Awareness about perimenopause is also very low in India. Dr. Shweta Mendiratta said that conversations about menopause need to be normalized the same way as people talk about menstruation or pregnancy.

She added: “There are many myths about menopause, including the belief that it is a kind of ‘disease,’ that Hormone Replacement Therapy is unsafe for everyone, and that weight gain and mood swings are unavoidable. In reality, menopause is a natural phase. With the right guidance, including lifestyle changes, supplements, and sometimes short-term HRT, symptoms can be managed effectively and safely.”

According to Dr. Shweta Mendiratta, a holistic approach works best to help manage menopause smoothly, including balanced diet, regular exercise, yoga, and mindfulness. Foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, omega-3s, and phytoestrogens (like soy) also especially helpful. HRT and non-hormonal medications can also be considered based on individual needs. Women who stay physically active, eat fibre-rich foods, and get 7 to 8 hours of sleep experience fewer menopausal symptoms and better long-term health outcomes.

Clearing the air about Hormone Replacement Therapy, Dr. Shweta Mendiratta said: “When prescribed under a doctor’s supervision, HRT is both safe and effective. It should be considered for women with severe hot flashes, sleep issues, or bone loss. Not every woman needs it, but for many, it can significantly improve quality of life.”