I have been told by my midwife to start thinking about how I want the birth to be (I am only 11 weeks with my first, but apparently its good to start thinking about it now). I have done quite a bit of reading and feel quite strongly that I really don't want any pain releif (unless I have an emergency c-section or something, obviously). I really do not like the idea of an epidural at all and, although I would consider gas and air, because of various things, I HATE the feeling of being "high" or lightheaded, which I think gas and air gives you. I really want to try and deal with the pain by breathing, water and massage. I feel like I will be able to deal with it...
BUT, as I said, this is my first, and I am aware that I may be being really naive and unrealistic about this. Is the pain going to be so bad that I will be screaming for an epidural (I really don't want one), or has anyone else managed the kind of birth I would like??
ps - I don't mind being told that the pain is unbrearable and I am being stupid to even consider this!