Biographical summary
Dr. Melissa Cantave is a fellowship-trained gynecologic surgeon specializing in complex benign gynecology and minimally invasive gynecologic surgery at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Her advanced training and commitment to patient-centered care allow her to provide highly individualized treatment for each patient. She is committed to creating a care experience in which every patient feels heard, respected, and supported.
Dr. Cantave cares for patients from across Florida, the Southeast, and beyond who seek specialized care for complex or persistent gynecologic conditions, including endometriosis, uterine fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, and conditions requiring minimally invasive surgery. She takes a compassionate and collaborative approach to care, partnering with each patient to understand their concerns, goals, and priorities and develop a treatment plan that aligns with their individual needs. Her surgical approach emphasizes effective treatment while supporting a smooth recovery to help patients return to their daily lives as soon as possible. Whether pursuing fertility-sparing treatment, avoiding unnecessary surgery, or pursuing definitive treatment, Dr. Cantave works with each patient to determine the approach that best supports their goals and quality of life.
Dr. Cantave completed fellowship training in Complex Benign Gynecology at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. She specializes in advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques and her areas of expertise include:
- Excisional surgery for endometriosis, with an emphasis on comprehensive treatment of disease and relief of pain
- Uterine fibroid removal (myomectomy) to treat symptomatic fibroids while preserving the uterus
- Minimally invasive hysterectomy using advanced laparoscopic and robotic approaches
- Management of chronic pelvic pain using a comprehensive, multimodal approach
- Evaluation and treatment of adenomyosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, ovarian cysts, and other complex benign gynecologic conditions
Outside of medicine, Dr. Cantave enjoys trying new cuisines, spending time with family and friends, reading, and enjoying the beach.
Conditions treated
Procedures performed
Interests
- Medical and surgical management of abnormal uterine bleeding
- Comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis
- Uterine Fibroids and fertility-preserving treatment options
Mayo Clinic locations
Education
- 2026
Fellow - Complex Benign GynecologyFLA Minimally Invasive Gynecol, Programs in Florida, Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine
- 2024
Residency - Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University School of Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis Children's Hospital Consortium
- 2020
MDGeisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
- 2016
BA - NeuroscienceDartmouth College
Activities and honors
Awards and honors
- 2024
Commitment Against Racism Award Mayo Clinic
- 2024
Strategic Identification of Talent Excellence (SITE) Program RecipientMayo Clinic
- 2024
Resident WinnerDr. David Rothman Research Project Award
- 2023
Diversity Distinguished Service Teaching AwardWashington University School of Medicine
- 2023
Inaugural Awardee David G. Mutch Residency Research Scholarship
- 2022
The Lucy, Anarcha, and Betsy (L.A.B) AwardOB/GYN Division of Clinical Research, Washington University
- 2020
Barry D. Smith, M.D. Award for Excellence in Obstetrics and GynecologyGeisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
- 2017
Inaugural Dr. Joseph O’Donnell Schweitzer FellowshipGeisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
Professional memberships
- 2024 - 2026
FellowAmerican Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists
- 2024
Reviewer/GraderAbstract and Video, Global Congress, American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists
- 2022 - present
MemberIDEA2 COUNCIL, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University
- 2020 - present
MemberAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
- 2019 - 2020
Student RepresentativeGeisel Committee for Student Performance and Conduct, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
- 2017 - 2018
MemberGeisel Diversity Task Force, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
- 2016 - 2018
PresidentBeyond the Books Organization, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
Publications