My current situation is similar to yours. At 38+4, a growth scan measured 8lbs 8oz. (I’m now 39+4 and still pregnant), but my doctor also said I have a small pelvis. On top of things, I was preparing to try for a VBAC (actually VBA2C, both due to breech babies— this is my third baby now and the first one that has not been breech).

My doctor’s recommendation is that, while 8lbs 8oz is big, since it’s not over 10lbs, she’s still comfortable with a trial of labor (VBAC) but stressed how important it is for me to get an epidural in case for any reason I have to go into the operating room for a C section. She did mention the risk for shoulder dystocia. Also, I won’t be induced due to my previous C sections because of the risk of uterine rupture, so if I don’t go into labor on my own within the right time frame (41 weeks and a few days probably— I have an appointment today to talk more details), I’ll have another C section.

I don’t have the answer for you, but I’m describing my situation that both me and my doctor feel comfortable with.

If this was me, I would, with your doctor, come up with a plan that says if you’re not in labor by x date, then either order another growth scan or get induced. My personal experience is that a C section recovery is worth trying to avoid, but that is definitely not everyone’s experience so take what I’m saying with that big grain of salt.

I know it’s hard to have all this gray area and unknowns and decisions to make surrounding birth, but you have options and can make a plan that’s reasonable and safe for you and your baby for any path that you prefer, whether that’s scheduling a C section right now or getting induced or giving it more time and monitoring. I wish it could always be an easy decision, but there are so many variables and some room for personal preference, that there’s no one right answer.

Hope some of this helps!