"Planned" induction due to previous traumatic birth - experiences?

[ladydanger]

I'm pregnant with my second and had a pretty traumatic first birth (mostly around lack of pain relief). I would like an elective c-section this time around, however the midwife has suggested I could also consider a 'planned' induction whereby I would have an induction date, come into hospital and get set up on pain relief prior to the induction process.

I would be induced on or close to my due date.

Has anybody been in a similar position and how were your experiences?

I had a very traumatic first birth resulting in both me and DC having a prolonged stay in hospital/special care and months of recovery for me. For DC2 I opted for an elective section and it was brilliant. I was in and out of hospital in 24 hours and it was so calm and controlled. Pretty much back to normal after 2 weeks and felt like a breeze compared to birth 1. I spoke to a consultant (midwife referred me at booking) about my first birth and he agreed that ELCS was best for everyone And gave me a date and time there and then! I think generally there is more awareness around the psychological impact of a traumatic birth and my unit certainly recognised that and were really onboard with giving me a positive experience. As a PP has mentioned also ask about a birth reflection service which I accessed sometime after my first birth as it helped me understand what had happened and answered a lot of questions I had. Also go armed with the NICE guidance on sections and they really do have to consider maternal requests.