NY S01877

Requires maternal health care providers (physicians, midwives, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants) to provide written information about episiotomy to pregnant patients prior to vaginal delivery, or following delivery if vaginal delivery was unplanned.

Directs the commissioner of health to develop written communication(s) about episiotomy in consultation with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the New York State Association of Licensed Midwives, health care professionals, consumers, educators, and patient organizations.

Required written information must include potential maternal injuries from episiotomy, impact on future deliveries, circumstances when episiotomy may be necessary to protect mother or fetus health, and consent requirements for the procedure.

Requires the commissioner to maintain and update the written communication to reflect current clinical guidelines.

Takes effect 180 days after becoming law, with the commissioner authorized to immediately begin making regulations necessary for implementation.