Hi Scooby,

For my two cents worth, I reckon that if in your heart of hearts you want to try for a VB, then you should give it a go (depending on whether your placenta has moved). I think that's what I'd do, anyway. You had a really traumatic first birth, so it's understandable you're hesitant to go down the same path. However if your thoughts/emotions keep taking you back to another VB, then maybe that's the way you should go. Just make sure your support team is 110% behind you.

Good for you on doing your research - I take my hat off to you. Nothing beats being informed and knowing your choices/options.

Just wanted to add one other thing. I know zip about short perineums but has your OB given you any idea about how likely is it to tear if you don't need any assistance? Is your bub likely to be larger than average? Could lots of perineal massage/hot compresses during labour help it to stretch for your bub therefore minimizing tears? Sorry if this is naive thinking, like I said, I'm not sure about all the implications of a short perineum. Just a thought, anyway.

Good luck, but for me the bottom line is you do what you feel is right for you and your bub.

Andie