Second birth after traumatic first

[Mered12]

I’m 26 weeks with my second due Nov, I had a really bad first birth which resulted in being rushed to theatre, having forceps, an episiotomy, 3rd degree tear and haemorrhaging. I had a consultant appointment a week or so ago and he said it’s ultimately my choice which kind of birth I have for the next explained the pros and cons of both. My recovery was really really hard with my last and I was convinced I wanted an elective c section so I had control over my birth and also not do any further damage (tearing again) as I don’t think I will recover the same or have to have an emergency c section.
however, I have been having extreme anxiety over c sections the last few days thinking of the worst possible outcomes and what if something goes wrong reading statistics about all the things that can go wrong 🙈
has anyone been in a similar situation, what was your second birth like what did you choose?

My first was v similar sounding to yours and was partly the result of an induction with v intense contractions that left me too tired to push in the end. So for my second I was adamant I wouldn't have another induction, I wanted either natural labour if everything looking good, or planned c section if not. The decision was taken out of my hands at a 36 week scan as baby was breech- I was booked for c section. Then 2 days before section date they discovered baby had turned.

The consultant talked me into another induction for various different reasons at this point. I was really reluctant but agreed that it seemed the most sensible thing to do for various reasons. It ended up being an amazing experience- I had an epidural early on and baby came out very quickly and easily, no tears or episiotomy needed. The midwives said this is often the case with second/subsequent babies.

Obviously you can never really plan for every scenario but if I were to do it again I'd be very happy to have a natural birth and induction, and would be keen to avoid c section. I do have friends who've been very happy with their decision to have a planned c section however.

Best of luck whatever you decide!

@TeainanIV Yeah of course same with you! You’re actually 2 weeks ahead of me, so you’ll probably meet your baby first 🥰🥰 but definitely update on here as your journey goes on, I’d love to hear! Xx