Elective c-section or VBAC?

[Newmum23x]

Currently almost 29 weeks pregnant so starting to think about planning the birth. With my first I had an emergency c-section due to failed induction, it was a category C emergency so not a super rush and didn’t feel scary - me and baby were both well it was just the preferred option at the time.
Since i’ve had 1 previous c-section I have been offered the choice of an elective this time around, I am so nervous about it for some reason, more so than the first time as I feel like I know what to expect and the first time I just went in blind and got on with it. I am really worrying about silly things like the cannula and obviously the pain afterwards - does anyone have any advice?
I am currently unsure if a VBAC is an option as my placenta is covering my cervix, plus equally unsure if I would want to risk a natural labour turning into an emergency c-section!

I had a failed induction, ending in an EMCS, first time. Have gone on to have 2 straightforward VBACs. For my second baby, I said I'd try for a VBAC but with a very low threshold for another c-section e.g. I said I'd choose a c-section over another induction. In the end, baby came spontaneously so I went with it. For third, I did the same. Good luck!

I am thinking of doing the same, definitely not wanting to be induced again and would be happy to go for a VBAC if labour seems to be progressing ‘normally’.
For this option did you tell your consultant and they still gave you a c-section date? Or was it more of a wait and see what happens type situation? (If you don't mind me asking 😊) x

I also had a failed induction ending in EMCS where it all got a bit hairy, for me an elective is a no brainer but I completely understand others feeling differently and wanting to try for a VBAC.

Choosing not to be induced again seems like a very reasonable option, I do think if your placenta is over your cervix that could force a decision though?

I get what you mean about feeling more nervous, I was so out of it by the time I went to theatre last time that I don't really remember much so there's definitely apprehension there as well as looking forward to it being calmer.

Yes definitely, if my 32 week scan shows my placenta still covering my cervix it will definitely have to be a c-section!
My experience the first time was fine really but think its because I just got thrown in and had to get on with it, I’m not sure why now I feel so nervous the second time around - I think its the knowing what to expect and overthinking everything making me more nervous 😆 x

I totally get that, I’m only 16 weeks so feel really blasé about it now but I know when the time comes I’ll be shitting myself 😅

Yes, I spoke to the final consultant and she was happy with that plan. I never saw the same consultant twice and they all had different views on how likely a successful VBAC was.

I did have a c-section date booked in but I think that was mainly because I had gestational diabetes so they wanted me to have an induction or c-section date booked in no later than 41 weeks. They said it's easier to have a date booked and then cancel, rather than trying to squeeze you in last minute.