Epidural ?

[firstimer91]

So I am due to give birth in the next 3 weeks and was quite adamant that I would avoid epidural unless absolutely necessary.

Then at a family gathering today, an opinionated aunt said I am being silly, if the pain reliefs there I should take it and if I resist I can become tired and the baby stressed.

I also said I was thinking of water birth to which she just laughed.

It has shaken me up a bit... any opinions?

Thanks

I was induced and had an epidural as soon as they broke my waters (didn’t want to risk a GA if I needed a c-section and DP missing the birth).
I would do exactly the same again, I didn’t suffer a single minute of pain, it was a calm, relaxing, beautiful experience. I loved giving birth so much I’d do it every day of the week! Lol!
I went to sleep during my contractions and the MW woke me up when it was time to push. I was able to listen to her and push exactly when she told me and pushed DS out with no tears or stitches needed. It was really lovely.
We cuddled our baby alone for an hour and by then I had full feeling back and was able to jump in the shower.
I don’t think it’s for everyone, but that’s what was right for me.
As my MW said - there’s no prizes handed out at the end for who can endure the most pain - if you were getting your leg amputated you wouldn’t just ask for a bit of wood to bite down on!

My epidural didn't even work. Do whatever is best for you. If you change your mind you might be able to still get one. There are no medals at the end of labour and the prize is the same regardless of your pain relief. Having done birth once and hoping next time will be quicker, I'd go birthing pool next time too

I've just had my second baby, first with gas and air, no time for epidural, second gas and air and then an epidural. Two very different labours for lots of reasons but the epidural for me was amazing, the epidural man has gone straight to the top of my Christmas card list! I knew I could cope with the pain because I had done before but i didn't want to...so very glad I got it and it worked! Such a personal choice, my own view would be to keep an open mind and see how you get on. Best of luck!