When Consent Does Not Help: Challenges to Women's Access to a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Section and the Limitations of the Informed Consent Doctrine.

Abstract

Pregnant women with a prior cesarean delivery face challenges in accessing a vaginal birth due to both hospital and provider preferences and practices. Although the doctrine of informed consent secures women's reproductive rights, it is not a viable legal remedy. Instead, women should champion increased maternity-related education and transparency as well as medical malpractice reform to increase the desired access.