Bill > A01039

This bill establishes a new requirement for healthcare providers in New York State to inform pregnant individuals about the risks and benefits associated with cesarean sections, also known as C-sections. For planned C-sections, providers must give written information detailing that while C-sections can be life-saving, vaginal birth generally leads to shorter recovery, lower infection risk, and fewer complications in future pregnancies, and that requesting a C-section without medical necessity is not advised due to potential maternal injuries like heavy bleeding, organ damage, and increased risks in subsequent pregnancies, such as uterine rupture, though Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) may be an option. If a C-section is unplanned, meaning it wasn't anticipated before labor, the provider must still provide written communication after the delivery explaining the reasons for the unplanned C-section and reiterating the information about future pregnancy risks and VBAC possibilities, emphasizing that the risk of certain pregnancy complications like placenta previa or accreta increases with each C-section.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1039