Wow - this is almost exactly like my labour with DS - I had strong contractions for 12 hours and only 4cm dilated, then epidural and another 12 hours!! DS was posterior and not engaged. I also was almost given a CS, but was taken to theatre for a forceps delivery (so that if it didn't work I would be already in place for a CS). It was also so drawn and and traumatic for me but such a relief in the end. You will be fine the second time around, anything has to be easier. I am telling myself the same thing too Good luck.