Ava - #2 was engaged from about 20 weeks, and smaller than my 9lb4ozer (he was 7lb9oz), plus the kids were only 18 months apart. Plus I'd been having almost imperceptible Braxton Hicks contractions, but I guess they were doing something! My body was so ready for birth. And really, as full on as I bet your last birth was, you know you can do this if you have to.

My suggestion would be, if you're worried about suddenly having to rush off - can anyone stay with you? IF we have another, I'd get a family member (mum or sister maybe) to stay from about 38 weeks, so that if I need to rush off we don't have to wait for anyone to come to watch the kids. Plus, if my dh doesn't make it in time I wouldn't be birthing/labouring alone. Is that an option for you do you think?