I've been a lurker and would like to now announce the early arrival of James (6lb 7oz) and share my story for anyone worried about labour. He was due on 4th June but decided to make an appearance on 26th May.
I had a show in the morning but thought nothing of it. At about 7pm I had another. I had a quick birth last time but despite the fact I had no pain and no breakage of waters, my family insisted I left for the hospital "just in case".
Me being me I decided to tidy up first. At about 8.15pm we left. We arrived at 8.45 and a cross receptionist told us to sit in the waiting room. I had a bit of period ache (I say ache because it really wasn't pain).
My hubby (unbeknown to me) was timing my moments of "ooh my back aches a tad" and when I rubbed my tummy. At just gone 9 he announced I was doing it every 2 and a half minutes.
They begrudgingly took me through to a room and went (fair enough as I was still not in pain).
At 9.30 a midwife examined me purely because I said I needed a poo. (A clue I needed to push she later said) I was fully dilated! They broke my waters and 24 minutes later he popped out! He had the cord round his neck but was fine. I had no pain relief whatsoever and I genuinely didn't need it.
I hope it doesnt read like I'm boasting. I'm genuinely sharing this for anyone who is worried about labour. Yes you will hear horror stories but you will also hear ones like mine.
Further reassurance, my first child was a breech birth. I delivered her vaginally and with no pain relief in about an hour and a half. I honestly found that a breeze too.
Anyway, I wish you all the best with your babies :-)