Epidural negativity?!

[Rachel12551]

I'm just wondering why people are so negative when I tell them I'm opting for an epidural (if possible of course, I know it's not always guaranteed to happen)? They say things like "you might not need it" or "I didn't have one and I was fine, are you sure?".

I have suffered with major anxiety for 15 years and have done a lot of research and feel it's the best option for me to have a positive birthing experience. I've also researched hypnobirthing and want to use those techniques as well.

It's as if people think you're cheating or not giving birth "properly". I'm aware things can go wrong and it doesn't always work 100% efficiently but isn't this the case for childbirth in general?

Has anyone else felt this? Just feeling a bit deflated over it

Also about risks (forceps/ intervention)- Women get epidurals if they have longer and more complicated births anyway. Such as back to back labour. There are a lot of other factors, it’s not just because of the epidural.

I had one with first DC. I regret it and I would probably say something along the lines of 'are you sure' or 'why dont you wait and see how it goes' if a good friend asked me. It wasn't a good experience for me and I avoided it at all costs for DC2.

Idk but having just had my second with no damn pain relief ( gas and air doesn't work for me and labour m too fast for other drugs) I think if you can get help with the pain you should. There are absolutely no prizes for drug free births. I absolutely hated it both times.