An emergency c-section, then a VBAC - am I mad to want an elective c-section this time?

[katydix]

Hi
I'm pregnant with my third child.
I had an emergency c-section first time after a long labor that didn't progress.
Second time I had a very quick and very painful VBAC.
This time I am seriously considering an elective - do you think I would be mad to after a 'successful' VBAC?
I understand the risks with a C-section, but if I do have one, I can stop worrying about the scar rupturing, what the baby is big, what if I go overdue, what if baby gets into an awkward position.......
Everyone says, oh the third baby will be easy but my mum says her third was the hardest to deliver as he had such a massive head!
Has anyone had a similar experience? Advice please!

I don't think you're mad but I do think you should never be allowed to leave MN as you will have a full house of birthing experiences!

I think you should go for the ELCS if that's what you want.It's entirely your decision.

I've had two emcs for failure to progress. My 2nd dc was 10lb 6oz so I was quite relieved

Your choice entirely

Its a very personal choice, it might help to talk it over with someone independent. Do you get on well with your midwife? GP?

I would bear in mind that your VBAC was essentially like a "first birth" and that a second vaginal birth should be easier/shorter/quicker. There are no guarantees though, and if you think you will be more worried about a painful birth again, then go for the ELCS.

Your choice entirely. Go with what you feel most comfortable with, look at all risks of either choice, talk to your consultant and make a decision based on that.
I found the RCOG guidelines very helpful in my decision making process.

no. i had a section, then a hellish back to back vbac (which nearly ended in emcs), then vbac2 (despite asking if i could have elcs but was told 'no clinical need').

dd2 was born by vbac2 and has cerebral palsy due to birth hypoxia.

i'm never labouring again.

do what you feel you need to, to ensure your mental health and safe outcome for both of you.

My 3rd birth was horrendous, i think you need to do whatever you feel comfortable with, and as a woman who has real issues about rupturing scars i can totally understand your fears.
Do you have a good obs/gynae you can discuss it woth

Thanks you so much for your responses and your support - I really appreciate it.
The consultant I saw to discuss the birth was a really bully, really puished me to a VBAC and rubbished all of my concerns as not important. I almost found myself agreeing to another VBAC just because of the way the consultant was. It was only that I felt pushed into it last time that I was determined to stand my ground and keep a c-section as an option for me this time.
But my midwife is amazing and said she will come with me next time I see the consultant to back me up. When I told her I was thinking about a c-section, her response was - I totally understand, there are risks with both but you've obviously researched it and it is your birth so it is up to you.