I assume you have a different
Ob now? Because if its the same
Ob that thought you needed an augmentation after just 12 hours of your waters breaking naturally then I would run for the hills. Most babies don't like the gels or the synto drip to a degree or more, because it makes the contractions longer, stronger and harder than normal in an unmedicated labour. The baby gets less oxygen as a result of the uterine muscle pumping harder, faster and longer and stresses out.
A doula or birth attendant can reduce your chances of a
c/s by 50% (amongst many other things) based on many studies from around the world. I think if you are going to hospital for a VBAC, they are absolutely essential, unless you hire your own independent midwife. In Brisbane I have heard of a doula names Liz Leys if you can find her details (you could google), I hear she is very good.