Elective cesarean or natural birth?

[Gizmo635]

My first birth ended with a bad 3rd degree tear and even the doctor who stitched me up in theatre afterwards advised that my next birth be a cesarean.
I'm now pregnant with my second child and have just been to see a consultant about what I want for the birth this time. I was expecting her to say that I should try to have a natural birth again as I had read that that is usually what is said but she almost seemed the opposite. She said that due to my small size (only 4ft 10) and how badly I tore the first time that it would likely happen again and possibly be worse or leave permanent damage.
I wasn't expecting this and hadn't really done any research into having a cesarean. Has anyone been in a similar situation? How did things turn out? Would you recommend a cesarean rather than a natural birth considering the potential risks?

I had an elective cs and don't regret it in the slightest. The op was calm and relaxed, the recovery was fine. I was driving in two weeks.

Honestly I think if consultants are suggesting ELCS I would seriously consider it. There’s a reason they’re advising it.

This will be in in 2 weeks when I go to my consultant referral. I was told the same as you that the next one may have to be a referral and that I'd be seen by consultant before 20w.

I have a friend who was in similar circumstances and she went for ELC and she has said it was the right choice for her as it was so calm and not traumatic like her first birth.

I'm as yet undecided but will see what the consultant advises before i make my decision.