need advice, now in a quandary

[superlative]

I am 36 weeks with my second.
My first was an elective section as he was breech. He was 8lbs 3 - the surgeons exclaimed over the size of his head as he emerged and afterwards the surgeon said I could never have birthed him vaginally (not sure why).
Today I had a presentational scan...this baby is head down and already full term size. This baby looks exactly like my first, head wise. (My fundal height is 42cm and I am 5" 2)

I thought I wanted a vaginal birth but now I am not so sure because of the baby's size. What if I try and then have to have a section afterwards anyway? What if I split from stem to stern and I could have avoided it by having a second section. Everyone I have spoken to says a section is easier and avoids pelvic problems later on.

I am seeing a consultant next week - she is pro-vaginal after section but has had two sections herself!

I am actually quite stressed and upset to make the right decision.

What would you do?

I havnt been in this situation but with my last baby i got a 3rd degree tear, which i personally think was down to the midwifes lack of experiance as i think the birth was rushed. Perhaps you could talk to your midwife about your concerns as she may have had others in your predicament. Also there is quite alot of info on the internet about natuaral, slow birthing which lasts longer but reduces your chance of tearing. Your could also try a water birth maybe as it supports your body and will allow you to try different birthing positions which may stop you having a bad tear. Sorry I couldnt be of anymore help

I havnt been in this situation but with my last baby i got a 3rd degree tear, which i personally think was down to the midwifes lack of experiance as i think the birth was rushed. Perhaps you could talk to your midwife about your concerns as she may have had others in your predicament. Also there is quite alot of info on the internet about natuaral, slow birthing which lasts longer but reduces your chance of tearing. Your could also try a water birth maybe as it supports your body and will allow you to try different birthing positions which may stop you having a bad tear. Sorry I couldnt be of anymore help

thanks c - anyone else have any good thoughts...please?

Definitely have to second the idea of the water birth. I had a second degree tear with ds1. When I had ds2 I tore along the scar from ds1 (probably inevitable). Def do some perenial massage too, it will help.

Good luck and Congratulations!