There's no need to suffer in silence. Bladder leakage and other pelvic floor disorders are treatable.

We are committed to provide each of our patients with the most personalized care – the approach and treatment that works best for you, your life, and your preferences.

Bladder Leakage is common.

Nearly 45% of adult women report occasional bladder leakage. In a great majority of cases, bladder leakage can be cured or improved. There are a vast number of treatment options. Remember: bladder leakage is common and treatable.

This is what makes our care so special.

Because urogynecology is a relatively new specialty, there are few providers in the Twin Cities in comparison to other medical specialties. Our urogynecologists have extensive experience, training and knowledge. Our goal is to customize our care for each and ever patient so every woman has the best opportunity for a great outcome.

We're dedicated to finding the right treatment options for you.

Our goal is to restore confidence, dignity, freedom and enjoyment of life to women suffering from conditions of the pelvic floor. These common conditions - urinary leakage, fecal seepage, falling bladders, and pelvic pain - often plague women and dramatically impact their lifestyle. We are here to help.


What our patients say:

  • Minnesota Womens Care is phenomenal! From the front desk staff always greeting me with a smile when I walk in to my appointments with Dr. Kelly and Heather. I have spent most of my adult life with uterine pain and from the first time I walked into their office I felt heard. The staff is incredible. I recommend Minnesota Womens Care to everyone I know! Thank you to all of you for all you do!
    – L.G.G. - Patient
  • Minnesota Womens Care is phenomenal! From the front desk staff always greeting me with a smile when I walk in to my appointments with Dr. Kelly and Heather. I have spent most of my adult life with uterine pain and from the first time I walked into their office I felt heard. The staff is incredible. I recommend Minnesota Womens Care to everyone I know! Thank you to all of you for all you do!
    – L.G.G. - Patient
  • Dr Ashford is one of the best drs/surgeons.He really cares about his patients and is the only dr who would help me!!He goes above and beyond for his patients. i am so happy that i found him!!!I had surgery with him for some female issues and recovered quickly he did a great job!We are working on some other issues.He is a life saver!I absolutely love this Dr from the bottom of my heart!
    – D.H. - Patient
  • Very patient friendly and explained everything in a way you can understand. Had been to 4 other surgeon's before I chose Dr. Ashford to do my surgery and have had perfect results!! Highly recommend!!
    – C.G. - Patient
  • Jenna was amazing! She took time to help me understand my issue and treatment plan and made me feel very comfortable during my therapy.
    – J.L. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford was really great with communication. He took his time with explaining everything to me. I'm so glad I picked him to do my procedure.... I definitely recommend anyone to see him...
    – S. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford has been fantastic throughout this process from consults to surgeries and final follow ups. I'm so very grateful.
    – K.K. - Patient
  • Dr Kelly is truly remarkable! She took such incredible care of me before during and after surgery every step of the way. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found such a top doctor and skilled surgeon! I highly recommend Dr Kelly!
    – D.S. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford is an excellent surgeon. He was able to help me when others doctors could not.
    – N.P. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford is an excellent surgeon. He was able to help me when others doctors could not.
    – N.P. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford has added another asset to his amazing team. Jenna was patient, listened to me and is extremely helpful. I've had my first visit with her and she's already providing me with relief and options for me to try when my pain is at it's most unbearable. I had surgery with Ashford today 10/15/20 for pelvic floor Botox and I am really looking forward to seeing Jenna next week to help even more with this endless battle of pelvic floor pain/disfunction. Dr. Ashford and his team make this awful pelvic floor pain/disfunction easier to live life. I've got a long ways to go but I will never give up and neither will Dr. Ashford and his amazing team/family. Thank you ALL!
    – B.G. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford has added another asset to his amazing team. Jenna was patient, listened to me and is extremely helpful. I've had my first visit with her and she's already providing me with relief and options for me to try when my pain is at it's most unbearable. I had surgery with Ashford today 10/15/20 for pelvic floor Botox and I am really looking forward to seeing Jenna next week to help even more with this endless battle of pelvic floor pain/disfunction. Dr. Ashford and his team make this awful pelvic floor pain/disfunction easier to live life. I've got a long ways to go but I will never give up and neither will Dr. Ashford and his amazing team/family. Thank you ALL!
    – B.G. - Patient
  • Dr. Kelly is the most personable and knowledgeable healthcare provider I have come across in a long time. My surgery - pre and post too- went so well and I really felt cared for.
    – C.B. - Patient
  • Professional, kind and compassionate, if you suffer from hormone issues and incontinence you have to call this clinic and get an appointment!
    – N.A. - Patient
  • I was hit with a few major diagnoses at once and didn't realize how much it could effect women's health overall. There were times where I had honestly given up on the possibility of being without pain until Dr. Ashford had instilled in me that women don't have to just exist with it.

    Dr. Ashford is the most honest and thoughtful provider I've ever worked with. He explains decision making with clarity and ease without making you feel overwhelmed or small. I'm someone with a boat load of anxiety and Dr. Ashford and the team here at MNWC are truly sensitive to my needs and want to see their patients reach their wellness goals. I'm beyond thankful and wish I could begin to describe the kind of gratitude that comes with that but for now I'd just say thank you so much!
    – Anon - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford was very thorough and listened to my concerns. He explained all my options and made me feel comfortable. He asked if I had any questions and took the time to answer them.
    – A.D. - Patient
  • My experience with Dr. Ashford and MWC has been excellent. Dr. Ashford always listens to what I have to say and I always feel that he is carefully considering what is best for me with my unique set of symptoms. I have every confidence in him. In addition, his staff is always responsive to my needs and questions.
    – B.C. - Patient
  • Erin is so caring and great at what she does! She has been adjusting me for a while and I have never had a bad experience! She is always so caring and has definitely helped with making both chronic and acute pain feel better! I am so grateful for all she has done and would highly recommend her!
    – L.Z. - Patient
  • I am 39 weeks pregnant and have been having issues with sciatic nerve pain and groin cramping. Erin has adjusted me during both my pregnancies and has given me so much relief; from migraines, neck pain, to ligament pain relief, and now to my current issues. She is wonderful with her patients.
    – L.E. - Patient
  • I wasn't sure what to expect given that this was my first time ever meeting with a chiropractor and meeting someone for my pregnancy sciatica pain that I've had my last pregnancy as well. But Erin has made me feel really comfortable and made it easy for me to trust her with my body. She thoroughly explains what she is doing so I don't become alarmed and also in a way that I understand. Overall, it's been a great experience!
    – M.Y. - Patient
  • Amazing chiropractor, amazing person! I have been seeing Dr Erin for a few years now starting at a prior location. She has allowed me to live pain free as well as provide many tips and tricks to prolong my bodily health
    – D.P. - Patient
  • I wasn't sure what to expect given that this was my first time ever meeting with a chiropractor and meeting someone for my pregnancy sciatica pain that I've had my last pregnancy as well. But Erin has made me feel really comfortable and made it easy for me to trust her with my body. She thoroughly explains what she is doing so I don't become alarmed and also in a way that I understand. Overall, it's been a great experience!
    – M.Y. - Patient
  • My experience with Dr. Ashford has been absolutely amazing. I've seen many physician's for my problem and this is the first time I feel that someone has listened and offered options/solutions versus being dismissive. I feel like I'm finely on the right path. I would highly recommend Dr. Ashford!
    – Anon - Patient
  • My experience with Dr. Ashford has been absolutely amazing. I've seen many physician's for my problem and this is the first time I feel that someone has listened and offered options/solutions versus being dismissive. I feel like I'm finely on the right path. I would highly recommend Dr. Ashford!
    – Anon - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford was very thorough and listened to my concerns. He explained all my options and made me feel comfortable. He asked if I had any questions and took the time to answer them.
    – A.D. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford and staff are absolutely top-notch. He treated several conditions I had with excellent results and corrected some mistakes other physicians had made. I didn't have to to go Mayo although I had thought about it. I found exactly what I needed at MN Women's Care. No matter what your condition, don't hesitate. Make the call for an appointment. You won't be disappointed.

    Being an older woman like me doesn't mean we have to go through life ashamed, hopeless, or even ignorant about our own bodies. Dr. Ashford and staff treat women who have lots of different issues. They restore hope, dignity and make life full of possibilities again for things you may have thought were hopeless. I am so happy I go there for treatment.
    – J.C. - Patient
  • My experience with Dr Ashford has been very positive in getting me back to good health after my surgery. I have had two surgeries with him and good results. Dr Ashford and nurses are a great team in providing healthy experience. Rachael, Andrea have done the uroystem treatment with me great success along with others that have assisted. I love Women's Care and have referred others to the clinic. Very helpful and supportive. Thanks.
    – S.A. - Patient
  • I came to MN Womens Care in desperate need of help. Dr Crabb was the first doctor to really listen to me, to hear my complex symptoms and work on solutions. He is an excellent surgeon who gave me back my body from the adhesions and endometriosis scars that had developed over many years. I credit Dr Crabb and his staff for giving me the best experience I have had with the medical profession in years. Thank you.
    – D.C. - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford is a brilliant and kind physician. It's worth the wait to see him. After some years of pelvic pain, he put me on a path of therapy and treatment that has ultimately totally alleviated it completely. His expertise is invaluable and I hope more doctors can be influenced by his advanced and wholistic approach to women's care.
    – C.K. - Patient
  • Dr Ashford is the best surgeon in the state of Minnesota dealing with Womens pelvic issues. He uses state of the art methods and gives you very individual care. He really listens to you. His staff from the moment you walk into his clinic treat you with the best service possible and always make you comfortable. I love going to this clinic!
    – M.R. - Patient
  • Dr Ashford is the best surgeon in the state of Minnesota dealing with Womens pelvic issues. He uses state of the art methods and gives you very individual care. He really listens to you. His staff from the moment you walk into his clinic treat you with the best service possible and always make you comfortable. I love going to this clinic!
    – M.R. - Patient
  • Doctor Ashford and his staff gave me my life back and I would recommend them to anyone dealing with OBGYN needs. He worked with me for many months and really listened to and understood me, he also personally preformed surgery on me in April and found the right medication for my endometriosis. A million thank you's to EVERYONE at the clinic, from the people answering the phones, all the way to the nurses and Doctors Ashford, may God bless you all.
    – M.A. - Patient
  • Doctor Ashford and his staff gave me my life back and I would recommend them to anyone dealing with OBGYN needs. He worked with me for many months and really listened to and understood me, he also personally preformed surgery on me in April and found the right medication for my endometriosis. A million thank you's to EVERYONE at the clinic, from the people answering the phones, all the way to the nurses and Doctors Ashford, may God bless you all.
    – M.A. - Patient
  • Dr. Amy Kelly has been our OB-GYN for the past 8 years and my husband and I cannot say enough good things about her. She is a highly skilled and competent practitioner and surgeon. We have recommended her countless times to friends and family, whether it be for OB services or to have surgery, and never once has she disappointed. Whether it is a highly complex surgical procedure or the attentive care needed during pregnancy, Dr. Kelly exceeds expectations in all that she does.
    – S.D. - Patient
  • I recently had surgery performed by Dr Ashford to correct some prolapse issues. I was extremely impressed with his level of competence and caring throughout the process. I totally trusted him,the surgery was a total success at this point with followup appointments scheduled to make sure I have healed correctly.

    He is an exceptional surgeon who cares personally about each of his patients. I definitely recommend Dr Ashford to any women with pelvic issues.
    – Marilyn - Patient
  • I recently had surgery performed by Dr Ashford to correct some prolapse issues. I was extremely impressed with his level of competence and caring throughout the process. I totally trusted him,the surgery was a total success at this point with followup appointments scheduled to make sure I have healed correctly.

    He is an exceptional surgeon who cares personally about each of his patients. I definitely recommend Dr Ashford to any women with pelvic issues.
    – Marilyn - Patient
  • Dr. Ashford is the best! Being a doctor that is both a gynecologist and an urologist he has been able to help me solve all of my issues, not just some of them. Even when I was questioning what was going on, he has remained calm and has always had a plan. He also has explained everything in a way that I could understand.
    – Anon - Patient - RateMDs.com
  • I went months thinking that I had chronic bladder or vaginal infections. I took tons of antibiotics. Dr. Ashford told me that it was not an infection, but possibly a pelvic floor problem. WOW, I never would have guessed, and took the extra time to teach me about my issue. Pain free now, and I have worked with so many providers at the clinic besides Dr. Ashford. So many kind and professional people here to help.
    Again, thank you so much.
    – C.M. - Patient
  • I went months thinking that I had chronic bladder or vaginal infections. I took tons of antibiotics. Dr. Ashford told me that it was not an infection, but possibly a pelvic floor problem. WOW, I never would have guessed, and took the extra time to teach me about my issue. Pain free now, and I have worked with so many providers at the clinic besides Dr. Ashford. So many kind and professional people here to help.
    Again, thank you so much.
    – C.M. - Patient
  • I went months thinking that I had chronic bladder or vaginal infections. I took tons of antibiotics. Dr. Ashford told me that it was not an infection, but possibly a pelvic floor problem. WOW, I never would have guessed, and took the extra time to teach me about my issue. Pain free now, and I have worked with so many providers at the clinic besides Dr. Ashford. So many kind and professional people here to help.
    Again, thank you so much.
    – C.M. - Patient
  • I went months thinking that I had chronic bladder or vaginal infections. I took tons of antibiotics. Dr. Ashford told me that it was not an infection, but possibly a pelvic floor problem. WOW, I never would have guessed, and took the extra time to teach me about my issue. Pain free now, and I have worked with so many providers at the clinic besides Dr. Ashford. So many kind and professional people here to help.
    Again, thank you so much.
    – C.M. - Patient
  • Everyone has been so knowledgeable and skilled, especially with my tipped uterus :) Any time I've had questions, they've always explained things well to me, and feel like I can ask them a question any time. I had a surgery with Dr. Ashford and everything went great, thanks to his skill. Highly recommend this clinic!
    – M.W. - Minnesota
  • Dr. Ashford and his entire staff are outstanding! I just had surgery and couldn't be more impressed about the care and compassion I received from Dr. Ashford. He really took time to listen to my concerns, answered all my questions and was great at informing me about my options. So glad I made the phone call to get a 2nd opinion from him. I'm thrilled to have a Dr. that wants me to feel my best!
    – Shawn - Minnesota
  • From February 2013 to November 2013, I worked with Dr. Ashford's staff with use of the In-Tone device to strengthen my pelvic floor muscles. It was a very good experience, and I still use the device. This is a great alternative to try for bladder leakage.
    – P.R. - Minnesota
  • I enjoy coming to Minnesota Woman's Care because I feel like I am getting the best treatment possible and the staff makes me very comfortable. Dr. Ashford figured out what was wrong with me and why I was in so much pain when no one else could. He was with me through my whole pregnancy and even after. I feel like I am very well taken care of and I would highly recommend Dr. Ashford to any woman.
    – M.C. - Minnesota
  • From February 2013 to November 2013, I worked with Dr. Ashford's staff with use of the In-Tone device to strengthen my pelvic floor muscles. It was a very good experience, and I still use the device. This is a great alternative to try for bladder leakage.
    – P.R. - Minnesota
  • I was very impressed with my results of the surgery. I have had no further issues and this had been a ongoing problem for years. Dr. Ashford is s very caring and concerned doctor, I feel that he always takes my concerns serious and he is very knowledgeable. I have recommended him and the clinic to several people.
    – M.S. - Minnesota
  • Minnesota Women's Care offers very extensive care for every woman and their needs. The facility is always clean. The staff is always friendly and helpful. I myself go weekly for Urostym treatment for my Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. This treatment has been very beneficial for me. Dr. Ashford is so knowledgeable about every aspect of a women's body. I would HIGHLY recommend him to every woman.
    – E.B. - Minnesota
  • They are awesome at his clinic .. and he did a very good job on my hysterectomy. And after care. He fixed my life...thanks.
    – J.A. - Minnesota
  • Minnesota Women's Care offers very extensive care for every woman and their needs. The facility is always clean. The staff is always friendly and helpful. I myself go weekly for Urostym treatment for my Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. This treatment has been very beneficial for me. Dr. Ashford is so knowledgeable about every aspect of a women's body. I would HIGHLY recommend him to every woman.
    – E.B. - Minnesota
  • I received excellent care from Dr. Ashford and nurses to provide treatment for ongoing excessive bleeding. I underwent an endometrial ablation procedure, which was quick and relatively easy. Since the procedure, I've had no problems, no pain, and no bleeding. Dr. Ashford's team was professional and caring and helped me to feel comfortable.
    – T.G. - Minnesota
  • I have had incredible results working with Dr. Ashford and his staff. Before meeting with him I had been dealing with severe pelvic pain for over two years. Most doctors, even specialists, did not know how to reduce my pain level. I had tried many therapies and nothing had worked until I met Dr. Ashford. After a few months working with him and his therapy and medication treatment I have seen a dramatic improvement with my symptoms. These people really know what they are doing and are patient and compassionate enough to take the time to listen and explore the many options that can help you. I highly recommend you give Minnesota Women's Care a chance to help you feel your best!
    – R.S. - Saint Paul
  • I could not have asked for a better surgeon or care team.
    – Bianca - Minnesota
  • I have had incredible results working with Dr. Ashford and his staff. Before meeting with him I had been dealing with severe pelvic pain for over two years. Most doctors, even specialists, did not know how to reduce my pain level. I had tried many therapies and nothing had worked until I met Dr. Ashford. After a few months working with him and his therapy and medication treatment I have seen a dramatic improvement with my symptoms. These people really know what they are doing and are patient and compassionate enough to take the time to listen and explore the many options that can help you. I highly recommend you give Minnesota Women's Care a chance to help you feel your best!
    – R.S. - Saint Paul
  • Finally Found a Dr. that listens to me as an individual. I have unique pelvic issues and Dr. Ashford is helping me along the road to recovery. Finally someone that doesn't just practice cookie cutter medicine. Everyone there is nice an helpful. I love that the nurses answer the phone and usually don't have to wait for answers to questions. Well worth the drive. I understand having to wait to be seen because all his patients have their needs met.
    – Rhonda - Minnesota
  • A huge thank you to Dr. Ashford for the last surgery to remove scar tissue that was messing things up and causing me pain everyday. I am now back to myself - feeling great & active - and no pain!!
    – E.A. - Minnesota
  • A huge thank you to Dr. Ashford for the last surgery to remove scar tissue that was messing things up and causing me pain everyday. I am now back to myself - feeling great & active - and no pain!!
    – E.A. - Minnesota
  • I hope you are still around for my daughters when they are older as I still tell my friends and family about you! Thank you for everything. I wish there was a way I can tell the world what you did for me. God Bless you.
    – A.G. - Minnesota
  • I hope you are still around for my daughters when they are older as I still tell my friends and family about you! Thank you for everything. I wish there was a way I can tell the world what you did for me. God Bless you.
    – A.G. - Minnesota
  • Dr. Ashford is an excellent physician with impeccable surgical skills. I was so lucky to find him. 
    – Patient - St. Paul

MINNESOTA WOMEN'S CARE UROGYNECOLOGY
Our Urogynecology Team

As specialists in urogynecology and pelvic floor disorders, the multi-disciplinary team at Minnesota Women's Care is prepared for a full range of treatment options – not just surgery. Our team of nurse practitioners, physician assistants, chiropractors, and physical therapists has the experience and training to deliver effective treatments that relieve symptoms and restore quality of life. Our team is led by board-certified urogynecologist Dr. Melvin Ashford. 

Dr. Ashford was one of the first board certified urogynecologists in the state of Minnesota and has a 17-year track record of clinical and surgical excellence.


Our Approach
Urogynecology and Center for Pelvic Floor Disorders

Our innovative and comprehensive treatment programs start with an accurate diagnosis. We use rehabilitative and curative care plans that are attentive to our patients' emotional, educational and physical needs.

Remember: Surgery is NOT the only answer. Our urogynecologists offer a number of non-surgical options that have helped many women find relief from troublesome symptoms. These treatments include in-house pelvic floor therapy, platelet-rich plasma injections, vaginal treatments (like Femilift, Thermiva and Geneveve), urethral bulking procedures, and Urgent PC. We’ll work with you to find the right solution.

Where surgery is required, your care plan may include both pre- and post- operative physical therapy to rehabilitate your pelvic function.

MN Women's Care: OBGYN and Urogynecology

About Pelvic Floor Disorders
What conditions are treated by Urogynecologists?

Urogynecology is the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic floor disorders which involve the complex system of muscles, ligaments, connective tissue, and nerves that help support and control the rectum, uterus, vagina, and bladder. Damage to the pelvic floor can occur for any number of reasons including childbirth, repeated heavy lifting, chronic disease or surgery.

Women with pelvic floor disorders typically experience these kinds of symptoms:

  • Urinary incontinence: loss of bladder or bowel control with leakage of urine or feces
  • Prolapse: descent of pelvic organs; a bulge and/or pressure; “dropped” uterus, bladder, vagina or rectum
  • Emptying disorders: difficulty urinating or moving bowels
  • Pelvic pain: discomfort to the lower back, pelvis or bladder and/or urethra
  • Overactive Bladder: frequent need to void, bladder pressure, urgency, urge incontinence (difficulty holding back urine when having the urge to urinate)
  • Fistulas: abnormal hole between the vagina and rectum (recto-vaginal), vagina and urethra (urethrovaginal), or vagina and the bladder (vesicovaginal)

About Surgical Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repairs

As OBGYNs and Urogynecologists, our team is uniquely qualified with both the training and experience necessary to successfully repair even the most advanced cases of pelvic organ prolapse. If you are currently suffering from this condition, there is hope and help.

We have provided examples of some of Dr. Ashford's prolapse repairs. The images are taken immediately before and after surgery. Please excuse the graphic nature. These are for educational and informative purposes only.

View images of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair