Years later: after requesting a referral for an MRI and being counseled that it would be expensive and unnecessary, I secured one, sent the imaging to another doctor, got immediate understanding, and was treated with a new, non-invasive procedure with all expenses covered by an NIH grant. Within two weeks my pain and discomfort were gone, and my life changed. read more

Dr.Beth delivered my baby 19 years ago! She is a champion for woman of color who are looking to give birth in a safe environment. Thank you Doctor. I will never forget you! read more

Never tell a bloated, hormonal woman she is "acting like a toddler" when she is asking for your help after waiting an hour for her appointment in chronic discomfort. Especially if you have a MD at the end of your name. If you can't be patient, I'd at least like to be respected for the issues I have had, and the initial worry I have that it's serious. I'm in pain, and if getting teary and asking what is wrong a few times after not getting a straight answer is acting like a child, than you got me. Can't say I'm impressed, by lack of professionalism in this office or by Dr. Kanwit's way of saying she's "frustrated because I'm not understanding her." I'm frustrated too, that she has no idea what is causing my intense discomfort. I understand clearly I'm not going to be seeing Dr. Kanwit again. read more

I should stipulate that I saw Dr. Kanwit for gynecological services (non-routine), not for a pregnancy, so I can only speak to her as a doctor in that capacity. I can see why some might see her as cold or uncaring, but I have to completely disagree with that interpretation of her style. I VERY much appreciate doctors who "tell it like it is" and give you a realistic picture of what to expect (rather than go verbatim by the books) AND nonjudgmental--these are the things that make ME feel comfortable, rather than a warm-and-fuzzy bedside manner. I could also trust that she would "give it to me straight" because she certainly didn't hold back about her opinions regarding the upcoming elections & health care (thankfully I happen to wholeheartedly agree with her opinions - haha). At the end of the day, a doctor isn't your friend, but she should make you feel as though you should trust her expertise and knowledge of you and your body, which she does very well. I've only seen her once, but my instincts are usually correct about doctors I see and my opinion rarely changes, however I will post updates as my relationship with her continues. Also - while I feel it's a little unfair to give the Dr. fewer stars due to the negligence of the OFFICE (not really her fault, at the end of the day) - I will admit that I waited a good 30 minutes to see her after my appointment time. read more

I am so surprised by some of the reviews here, but must respect everyone's individual experiences. Dr. Kanwit was assigned as my doctor when I transferred practices due to a move in my third trimester of pregnancy. Though she was my "primary" doctor, she recommended I see other doctors in the practice before delivery so I felt comfortable with them as well, as they may be the one delivering my baby when the day came (due to rotations). Her prenatal care was always excellent, and I enjoyed her calming yet straightforward approach. She is now my GYN, and I have to say despite the long wait in the office, I love coming in to see her! I've had routine visits and a couple of uncomfortable procedures/tests done by her, always successful and I leave the office feeling well informed and supported. Now that I have been her patient for over two years, we even catch up and chat a bit (she has great bedside manner). Again, I appreciate her straightforward approach, maybe its not for everyone, but you know where you stand, get your questions answered, and have real support from her. read more

Referred by the Tang Center after I left Cal. Continued seeing Dr. Kanwit after I moved to SF. That says a lot, since I hate crossing bridges! She is always very thorough, & more importantly, makes me feel comfortable in unsavory situations. Also takes the time to suss me out for non gyno issues since I don't have a primary. read more

Fortunately, my bad experience with Dr Kanwit was not as unforgivable as others' -- however, it was unpleasant enough that I will make sure to never find myself in her office again. Granted, I am suspicious of gynecologists in general, having had several extremely dissatisfying interactions with other gyns. However, I feel that this expression, courtesy of the Dalai Lama applies: the effectiveness of the treatment depends on how warm-hearted the physician is. I felt neither empathy nor compassion from Dr Kanwit. I am glad other ppl have had more positive experiences. And I am glad that I can seek gyn treatment elsewhere. read more

Absolutely hands down the worst experience at a Gyno I have ever had. Dr. Kanwit was cold and talked down to me like a toddler (I'm 32). She made a sick wisecrack about how I had surely seen the stirrups too many times (are you kidding me)? Despite my protest, I was told to do a blood test that ended up costing me $400 that I do not have. A routine procedure which should not have been painful was excruciating, and put me into vasovagal reflex mode - blood pressure so low that I could not sit up or speak. Dr. Kanwit's implements were not prepared correctly and she had to ask the nurse to get her something quickly as she was caught in a precarious position with her hand in my vagina, unprepared. I, meanwhile, was in pain and feeling incredibly faint, and vomiting. Neither she nor the nurse who was helping her knew what to do. Dr. Kanwit left the room, and her nurse, equally bumbling and befuddled, disappeared as well. My partner had to go and find someone to help me, as well as ask for routine antibiotics that were not prescribed. A different nurse brought me water and finished the appt. and Dr. Kanwit was not seen again. All in all I was appalled by her bedside manner, which was condescending and shaming. I was more impressed with the care I got at Planned Parenthood before I had insurance. I would never choose to see this woman ever again. My impression was that her personal opinions color the care that you receive, which would explain the wildly different reviews you're seeing here. read more

If I could I would give her less than a star. Absolutely the worst experience at a Gyno I have ever had. She doesn't explain or listen to you. I felt she was cold, uncaring attitude, unresponsive and just want you to pay and get out. I regret every day why I choose to go to this doctor with out reading the reviews. read more

Dr. Kanwit was my OBGYN during my first pregnancy. I had no idea how to choose an OB and had only had great doctors. I thought they were all like that, but I was wrong. To begin with, getting information out of her was like pulling teeth. I would wait in the office for thirty to forty-five minutes and then she would rush me out after only seeing me for maybe two. During my first appointment when I mentioned I had trouble getting pregnant (four years), she said, out of the blue, "Then I wouldn't recommend an abortion." What?! I hadn't been thinking of one! I hadn't mentioned wanting one! I was thrilled that I was pregnant! It seemed an odd place for her mind to go. Besides the office she worked in being poorly run and mistakes being made left and right with scheduling, Dr. Kanwit would flip flop on her advice. When I had trouble standing up and would get dizzy, due to the increased blood pressure, she told me that if I was still having trouble, that she would recommend a cardiologist. When I was still having trouble (I was afraid I would pass out and possibly fall on my stomach) and asked for the referral, she told me that I didn't need one, like I was an idiot for even thinking I would. She flip flopped on other issues as well. I wouldn't recommend her to anyone, but if you're a first time mom or not a doctor yourself, I would especially urge you to avoid her. Yes, she is very calm and always seems to be wearing a lot of make-up and jewelry, which can be encouraging to some people, but I prefer a doctor who is dedicated and can remember my name. I found myself really glad that she didn't deliver my son. read more

Dr Kanwit saved two of my children at birth. With one, the epidural had slipped out of place and the baby received a large dose of my medication into her blood stream and was born not breathing. Dr Kanwit and the skilled team at Alta Bates calmly resuscitated her and she is now a successful college student . She delivered my son who had the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck three times . She skillfully unwrapped it and he is now a healthy fourteen year old. As a health care professional, I believe all my prenatal testing and obstetrical care was done according to today's standards. I realize it is important to have a good fit personality wise with your OB. Dr Kanwit is reserved and will not coddle you. If you are looking for that you need to go elsewhere. But if you are looking for solid OB care, go to Dr Kanwit. read more

Dr Kanwit is a wonderful human being. She has provided thorough care around all gyn issues. When I had a miscarriage, she hugged me and truly seemed to care. She also shared my joy with my subsequent pregnancies. I am just reviewing her because, unfortunately, the practice is less than perfect. Expect to have to wait a LOOOONG time, especially late in the day, and expect to call several times before getting a return call on anything. The NP Alice at the practice is great also. read more

Dr. Kanwit was very professional and efficient but also friendly. She had a really nice bedside manner that was inquisitive and communicative. Her demeanor put me at ease as she informed me of everything she checked before doing it. I went in for a routine exam today and left feeling pretty good. read more

She should had lost her job, she gave me an birth control pill that almost gave me an heart attack.. she wasn't aware of the symptoms. I try to file an lawsuit against her, one law firm told me I didn't have an case. So if you don't want your health to become jepordazie then I wouldn't go here. read more

I was referred to Dr. Kanwit by my PCP for secondary ammenorhea. I decided to switch over to her for all my lady parts needs because of what a fantastic bedside manner she has. I looked into birth control as well and when I expressed concerns about side effects with previous forms, she was immediately able to identify what was causing my side effects (the type of progesterone) and recommended a different type. I've never had any physician who was so well-versed in pharmacology and kept me so in the loop. Couldn't be more pleased. read more

Dr. Kanwit was my ob for my daughter born in September. She has a very caring and thoughtful bedside manner. She took the time to get to know me and my husband over the course of my pregnancy and really took an interest in our family. She was also appropriately responsive to my concerns and not just in the strictly clinical kind of way. As a first time mom, I had a tendency to get worked up about the smallest pregnancy concerns. Dr. Kanwit always offered the perspective of an experienced doctor and a mom. She was able to calm my concerns while also being empathetic to them. The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is that there was sometimes a long wait at her office. Especially in the afternoon. Not necessarily her fault, but it was just annoying. If you're in a hurry, I recommend making appointments in the morning, when they're more likely to be on time. read more

Betsy is the best doc I've ever had. She delivered both of my kids (23 and 19 years ago), and has given me good counsel throughout the years. She's kind, smart, and has a great sense of humor. I wish all physicians had her skill set. read more

Dr. Kanwit is not my regular doctor. I have had the misfortune of seeing her twice. The first time was at the delivery of my first child. My doctor had to leave by the time I was ten centimeters dilated, and Dr. Kanwit stepped in. There was no warmth or bedside manner from her. For 4 1/2 hours Dr. Kanwit would look at my chart and tell me that I had to push harder even though my nurse told her repeatedly that I was pushing hard. I do not recall Dr. Kanwit ever examining me or checking on the baby. She would stand near the doorway or off to the side, look at my chart and then tell me that I just had to push harder. Then she began saying that If I didn't push harder she would have to do a c-section. After she left I felt so defeated and unheard that I began crying. I tried to push harder. The nurse said she had to get the doctor. I told my nurse that I didn't want Dr. Kanwit back in there again. My wonderful nurse brought in a different doctor who actually stood next to my bed and then examined me, and asked me to push. She peered over my legs and said that (1) the baby was facing the wrong direction and (2) the baby was too big to fit through. She tried a vacuum. That did not work so she went immediately to an emergency c-section. 18 months later, my left foot still goes numb because of nerve damage, which I have been told by a neurologist is due to the lengthy time I spent pushing. I feel this could have been avoided if Dr. Kanwit had taken the time to treat me like a patient rather than a specimen. The second time I was in the emergency room. I was about five months pregnant and suffering from the stomach flu and dehydration. The nurse thought I should stay overnight. They called Dr. Kanwit. Before she entered my room I heard someone say, "If she stays here she'll get us all sick. Just send her home." When she came into my room she was friendly and pleasant, but because of my labor experience and what I had just heard outside my door, I wasn't impressed. read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Kanwit's for 13 years. She is an absolute delight, and I trust her 100%. She is thorough, accommodating, and kind. She listens to everything I have to say about my own sense of my body. She is NEVER dismissive or minimizing if I am worried about something. She doesn't hesitate to respond to any concerns I have. I feel like she is in my corner to take care of my health. Even though I moved from the east bay 5 years ago, I still make the hour long trek to her office because I value my relationship with her a lot. I would not hesitate to recommend her. read more

Dr. Kanwit (Betsy) as I like to call her and she likes to introduce herself has been my doctor for over 25 years. I had a miscarriage in 1985 and my own doctor was not on call and Betsy showed up and helped me immensely. Again when I got pregnant, she delivered my now 24 year old daughter. She could not be more compassionate and has the ability to relate to issues that women encounter in their life stages. I have recommended Betsy to nmerous friend and family members and they all share my sentiments. read more

I saw Dr. Kanwit, because my regular doctor was on vacation. I was nervous to see a doctor that I had not seen before, but I could not have been more happy with my visit with Dr. Kanwit. She was very knowledgeable and kind. She really took the time to address all my concerns. She also made me feel very comfortable with her as a doctor. I highly recommend Dr. Kanwit. read more

I've been a patient of Dr. Kanwit for 24 years. She delivered both my children and has provided excellent care ever since. She has given me good advice at every phase of my life. She is knowledgeable, concerned, friendly, and the ultimate professional. I highly recommend her. read more

I saw Dr. Kanwit for a yearly exam recently and she was great. She answered all my questions and had a great manner. I would recommend her to others for certain. She is experienced and knowledgeable. read more

Dr. Kanwit took over care one evening. She made an initial physical assessment. She took immediate action. Within a few minutes, she found out she was right. 20 years on, when my daughter passes some important milestone, I still remember Dr. Kanwit. read more

Dr Kanwit was very cold and abrupt with me. I came in a while ago because I have been experiencing painful tears and itching on my labia majora. She told me just not to wear tight sports clothes. I told her I don't. She told me to just put moisturizer on it. When I asked what kinds would be okay or if I needed a kind for sensitive skin she just kind of looked at me and said it didn't matter. Months later, I'm still getting vaginal microtears. She provided no effective treatment method and didn't seem interested in answering any of my questions. I told her I was thinking about switching birth control and I had some questions, but she simply gave me a pamphlet about an IUD, something which I had expressed no interest in and don't want to do. I left feeling like my problem hadn't been solved and I hadn't been listened to. read more

Dr. Kanwit was not my OB during my first pregnancy but I ended up being seen by her (when she was on-call) for preterm labor at around 30 weeks. She was calming, kind and clearly had a lot of expertise. When I was in labor the OB on-call was very disappointing. I was sad that this person that truly rubbed me the wrong way was going to be delivering our child. Then at the last minute Dr. Kanwit came on early because there was also another woman about to deliver. Dr. Kanwit delivered our daughter and was AMAZING!!! Watching the video that my husband took in the moments after my daughter was born gives me goosebumps - everything Dr. Kanwit said and did was exactly what I would have wanted out of my doctor if I could have my "perfect" birth experience. She was wonderful! I've since switched OBs and I am now her patient. I am excited that she will be my doctor if/when I get pregnant again. read more