Albany, NY – Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan) announced today that her legislation (A.778-A/S.7714-A) to require that patients be provided with information on intrauterine devices, or IUDs, including pain management options, passed both houses. The legislation will soon head to the Governor’s desk.

“We cannot allow women’s gynecological healthcare concerns to be summarily dismissed and minimized,” said Assemblymember Rosenthal. “For decades, women have endured pain and discomfort during IUD insertions and felt belittled once they’ve spoken up. Their experiences highlight the sad reality that women's pain is often judged to be immaterial and therefore dismissed. It is past time that we begin the work of addressing it.”

In recent years, growing discussion around IUDs and the pain associated with their use has driven women to demand more robust pain management options during IUD procedures. A 2019 study found that just 5% of providers were using lidocaine during IUD insertions, with others recommending the use of ibuprofen, which research has shown to be ineffective at reducing insertion pain. The conversation, driven in part by videos and discussions on social media, led the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to update their guidance on contraceptive use in August 2024. Doctors are encouraged under the new guidance to counsel patients on the various pain management options before IUD insertion.

This legislation, which passed the Assembly unanimously and was sponsored in the Senate by State Senator Kristen Gonzalez, requires providers to distribute informational pamphlets to patients who may be considering an IUD. The pamphlet, which will be created by the New York State Department of Health, would describe the types of IUDs available and their use, potential risks and side effects, their effectiveness and pain management options during the insertion process.

“Patients should be empowered to choose the contraceptive method that’s right for them and healthcare providers must support them in that process,” said Assemblymember Rosenthal. “The pain felt by women during IUD insertion, and other healthcare procedures, must be taken seriously. Once signed, this legislation will help to foster a conversation between patients and healthcare providers that has been missing for too long.”