1st baby was a very very long and traumatic drawn out labour which resulted in epidural at 9cms as I'd lost it. Pushing was hard as I couldnt feel anything and came out with episiotomy and cord wrapped around babys neck.
2nd baby was 42+2 overdue, waters broken. Faster labour. Had gas and air. Demanded epidural and anesthetist was trying to place it in my back when baby started coming out. Didnt have to push even a tiny bit. On paper a lovely birth with a few small tears, but I think I'm still slightly traumatised by just how painful the whole thing was.
3rd baby on the way. The thought of going Au natural again is giving me serious anxiety. For anyone who has had a epidural on subsequent births did you find your body was still pushing by itself or did you really have to give it your all?