Biftu Mengesha

Biftu Mengesha, MD MAS is an Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). She holds significant leadership roles including Associate Director of the Complex Family Planning Fellowship and Associate Director of the Residency Program. Dr. Mengesha is affiliated with Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital where she provides clinical care and education.

• Education: B.A. in Biochemistry from University of Colorado, Boulder (2007)
• Medical Degree from Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine (2011)
• Residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology from McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University (2015)
• Fellowship and Master of Advanced Studies in Clinical Research from UCSF (2017)

Dr. Mengesha's research focuses on critical areas in reproductive healthcare including abortion and contraceptive care and counseling, complex contraception, health disparities, obesity and bariatric surgery, medical education, and inclusion and equity in clinical and learning environments. Her work addresses important gaps in reproductive healthcare access and quality, with particular attention to marginalized populations and systemic barriers in healthcare delivery. She has developed expertise in post-bariatric pregnancy care, contraceptive access, and addressing racial disparities in obstetric outcomes.

Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on health equity, with multiple studies examining racial disparities in cesarean delivery rates and the implications of restrictive abortion policies on medical education. Dr. Mengesha has also contributed to understanding contraceptive counseling for women undergoing bariatric surgery and the implementation of self-administered contraception during the pandemic.

• Multiple Golden Apple Student Teaching Awards (1st and 2nd place)
• John J. Sciarra Excellence in Family Planning Award
• Augusta Webster Award for dedication and compassion in patient care
• Most Outstanding Fellow and Teaching Fellow awards at UCSF
• John A. Watson Scholar at UCSF
• Academy of Medical Educators Excellence in Teaching Award

Dr. Mengesha has demonstrated exceptional commitment to medical education, receiving numerous teaching awards from both students and residents. Her leadership extends to directing fellowship and residency programs, where she shapes the next generation of OB/GYN professionals with a focus on equity and comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Her work bridges clinical practice, education, and research to address systemic issues in women's healthcare.