I gave birth to my first daughter vaginally. The birth was pretty standard (I had gas and air - total labour was around 18 hours). She weighed 9 pounds (4kg) at birth. After her head emerged, her shoulder got slightly stuck. My Ob wriggled her out pretty quickly, though in the process, nerves running from her neck to her arm were bruised, resulting in a mild Erb's Palsy (limited movement in her hand and arm). This resolved naturally a few months after her birth. I had 2nd deg tearing but this also healed fine.

Much later, I found out that lying pretty much on my back on the bed, was probably the worst position to be in for birth. I realise that the pelvis is more open if you are squatting or on all fours. So I wasn't helping the situation with my position.

Now nearly 36 wks with my 2nd baby, a boy and with the same Ob, he has suggested a scan at 36 wks to determine fetal size. If this baby is predicted to be larger than 4kg, he has suggested an induction at around 38 weeks or elective C Section to manage the risk of another shoulder dystocia. I think there is some evidence for second babies being bigger than firsts.

I am really not sure what to do as both forms of intervention seem quite drastic. I want to do what is best for the baby - but it doesn't seem an easy decision. Also with a toddler, I would rather avoid C section so I can pick her up!
If anyone has any similar experience, research findings or perspective on this, I would be very grateful. Thanks