1. I didn't have any during pregnancy, i had a few during labour,
2.they were uncomfortable but i didn't feel violated or upset or anything. I would have changed dr if they wanted to do VE during pregnancy as i don't believe they are necessary in a normal pregnancy.
3. Yes, they told me what they were going to do and why (to see how dialated i was)
4. i was very comfortable with the low number of VE i had