I would like to add to my comments earlier in the thread.

I DID have a really lucky / good experience with Amy - breathing techniques only. With my 1st (Amber) they gave me pethadine gas, which took the edge off but made me feel a bit woozy.

If I am ever blessed enough to get pregnant again, I would SERIOUSLY consider an epi - I think I have gotten more "chicken" as I am getting older!! (It would also be nice to get through ONE labor without turning the air BLUE with swearing which would make a sailor blush LOL!!! )

No-one will think any less of you if you have assistance / pain management - and if it will make it a more pleasant memory to look back on, then why not??