I didn't have a big baby (8lb) but I did have emergency forceps last week. It was my worst case scenario birth: I had merconium in the waters so couldn't have water birth and needed cont monitoring, then ended up with emergency forceps.
However it was such a positive experience I wouldn't be put off by forceps delivery in theatre again if needed. Was rushed to theatre but everyone was so happy and friendly and calm, music playing, husband was with me. Loads of people in theatre but all introduced themselves and chatted away.
Had a spinal inserted and honestly didn't feel a thing (I'm a massive needle wuss and cried having my ears pierced aged 25). Then lay down in the bed and they draped me up. Still chatting away. Husband sat next to my head holding hands.
They asked me to push which was strange as I couldn't feel anything but did as I was told. A few mins later I heard husband go "omg she's here" followed by a baby crying and a plonk on my chest. And there she was. Beautiful! They took the drapes down for me to see her whilst they did delayed cord clamping, then husband cut the cord. She the. Was taken to be weighed and nappy put on.
Whilst that was being done the surgeon explained he has given me an episiotomy that they were stitching and I had a small tear but neither were bad.
Then the baby was popped under my gown on my chest for skin to skin and there she stayed for an hour or so.
Was wheeled into recovery with husband and baby where we stayed together for sn hour and w half. And I got the infamous toast. Omg that toast. Amazing.
It wasn't scary in the slightest, everything was explained to me.
I had absolutely no pain or discomfort for 36 hours (feelings back in legs after about 3). Then managed on paracetamol. Had a 24 hour stay but that was fine too. Stitches started to come out and dislodge and hurt by day 9 and the midwife removed them for me.
Absolutely no complaints. Don't work yourself up about it and go with the flow is the best advice I can give.
Good luck xxx