VBAC or not?

[Jadefeather7]

Hi

I can’t seem to make up my mind about whether to try for a VBAC or have another ELCS.

I had an ELCS about 9 months ago for my first due to breech presentation. According to my midwife many women who had ELCS for this reason have successful quick VBACs (not sure if she’s just saying that to encourage me to try ).
ELCS recovery wasn't totally straightforward for me in the short term but I’ve been fine in the long term. I had a bad reaction to one of the drugs they use to stabilise blood pressure but luckily the issue resolved quickly and I’m fine now. I did find that my mobility was really bad even though I tried walking around as soon as I could the next day (I had my surgery around 3pm and the numbness didn’t wear off that evening). My husband had to help me off the bed for about 10 days. I just couldn’t manage it on my own for some reason.
I think I’m probably a good candidate for VBAC however what really puts me off is having examinations or any interventions where I might feel something being inserted into me. If I’m going to be totally numb and unable to feel anything then I’m ok with having an instrumental delivery. I cannot imagine having forceps without the epidural (that’s my worst nightmare). I possibly have some sort of vaginismus. Although I’m fine with sex I don’t like medical professionals examining me down below. It’s possibly because I’ve had horrible examinations when I’ve had thrush, bad smear experiences etc. I’m also really worried about having an EMCS as the recovery is supposed to be much more difficult. I’m so torn and I just can’t make up my mind so I would love to hear some opinions.

I've known several women who have planned for VBAC if laboured spontaneously but repeat section if induction is needed

For me, if I have a second, as much as I love the idea of a VBAC, I'm not prepared to risk the length, exhaustion and agony of my first labour which ended in a transfer and a (technically) ELCS.

I refused consent for forceps from the beginning when it was first suggested, but as I never actually dilated past 6cm it never because an issue.

OP hope all is going well with your pregnancy. Have you done any more thinking? Personally I am surprised that they're even entertaining the idea of VBAC due to the small age gap, as it makes the risk of scar rupture much greater. I am considering a VBAC with a small (but nowhere near as small!) age gap as you, and I have been told that I would need to be closely monitored throughout / consultant led / no induction / no prolonged pushing.