I had VB with my first 2, then an emergency CS, then a VBAC.

The reason I chose the VBAC was because I found the recovery time so much quicker & easier, (plus I must admit to a fear of anaesthetic).

My VBAC bub was 10lb8, it was a painful birth & I tore BUT the recovery has been great compared to my CS & I was happy with my decision.

FWIW my second VB was so much better than the first!
I had hoped my VBAC would be also, but they are all different & I was confined to the bed for my VBAC as they were worried about cord prolapse. I think this led to a longer labour...but as I said, my second VB was totally different & quite enjoyable.

I think in your case it depends on the circumstances of your first labour.. do you have reason to think it would be difficult this time? Can you work through any anxiety or trauma that you may still have? I would think that probably is at least as important as the pain factor...JMO

Good luck whatever you choose, I know this would not be an easy decision