Bill > S07545

This bill requires the New York State Department of Health to develop and mandate that maternal health care providers (including physicians, midwives, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants) distribute written information about episiotomy to pregnant patients before delivery. The written communication must cover key aspects of episiotomy, including potential maternal injuries, impact on future deliveries, circumstances where an episiotomy might be medically necessary to protect the health of the mother or fetus, and the general requirement of patient consent. The commissioner of health must develop this informational material in consultation with healthcare professionals, providers, consumers, and organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Providers must provide this information either before a planned vaginal delivery or after an unplanned vaginal delivery. The bill emphasizes that the written communication should be regularly updated to reflect current clinical guidelines, and it will take effect 180 days after becoming law. The overall goal is to ensure patients are well-informed about episiotomy, a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the perineum during childbirth to aid in delivery, and its potential implications.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7545