It is well established that epidurals can slow labor and increase your chance of having a cesarean birth. You may want to consider delaying medications and using alternative methods of pain relief such as Lamaze breathing and other relaxation techniques as long as you possibly can. Some studies indicate that if you delay an epidural past 5 cms then your chances of having a cesarean delivery drop dramatically. Narcotics are also sometimes used in labor. While these do not have a direct effect on your chances of cesarean, they do have an effect on your physical mobility and your mind.
Some women feel that their minds are clouded when they are given narcotics.
There is plenty you can do to help insure your and your baby's safety during a VBAC delivery. You will definitely want to consider taking a childbirth refresher course and take it seriously. These classes will teach you techniques that will help you learn to labor efficiently to reduce stress on your body. You may even want to hire a doula to help coach you through effective labor. Get plenty of rest and good exercise throughout your pregnancy.