Bladder changes, urinary urgency, recurrent UTIs, and incontinence are common — especially after menopause — but that doesn’t mean women have to simply live with them.

In this episode of In Full Bloom: A Women’s Health Podcast, Joan Blomquist, MD, Chair of the Department of Gynecology at GBMC, and host Mary Beth Marsden discuss menopause, bladder health, and the treatment options that can help improve quality of life.

Dr. Blomquist explains how the loss of estrogen can affect the bladder, urethra, and vaginal area, why symptoms may appear years after menopause, and when it may be time to talk with a provider.

Fibroids are common, but many women may not realize symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, urinary frequency, pain, or fertility challenges could be connected.

In this episode of In Full Bloom: A Women’s Health Podcast, Joan Blomquist, MD, Chair of the Department of Gynecology at GBMC, Elissa Trieu, MD, minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon at GBMC, and host Mary Beth Marsden discuss what fibroids are, how they are diagnosed, and the treatment options available today.

They also address common misconceptions, including the belief that hysterectomy is the only treatment option and whether fibroids can become cancer.

In this episode of In Full Bloom: A Women's Health Podcast, Joan Blomquist, MD, Chair of the Department of Gynecology at GBMC, and host Mary Beth Marsden discuss menopause, perimenopause, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 

They explore common symptoms, the hormonal changes that occur during menopause, and the latest evidence surrounding hormone therapy. Dr. Blomquist also addresses common misconceptions about HRT and explains how women can work with their healthcare providers to find the best treatment options for their individual needs. 

Whether you're experiencing symptoms yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers trusted information to help women navigate menopause with confidence. 

In the premiere episode of In Full Bloom: A Women’s Health Podcast, host Mary Beth Marsden sits down with Joan Blomquist, MD, Chair of the Department of Gynecology at GBMC, to introduce the mission behind the series: sharing trusted, evidence-based information that helps women feel more informed, more confident, and more empowered in their healthcare decisions.

Dr. Blomquist discusses why women’s health extends far beyond reproductive care, how gaps in research and access have shaped the care women receive, and why open conversation is essential to improving health outcomes. From menopause and endometriosis to autoimmune disorders, migraines, and barriers to care, this episode takes a broad look at the issues affecting women—especially during the years when they are often caring for everyone else.

Together, Mary Beth and Dr. Blomquist set the stage for future conversations that will bring women’s health topics into the open and help listeners advocate for themselves and the people they love.