I usually keep myself out of these type of discussions, but i'm going to be brave.
I am probably similar to the OP's colleague. When pregnant with dd1, I was happy to follow my Ob's advice, I didn't know that there was any other way to give birth. I didn't read too many stories on what could go wrong - because it petrified me. I was induced due to high blood pressure, and because my Ob was calm about it I didn't worry. Thankfully I had an enjoyable birthing experience. With dd2 it was the same. By the time I was pregnant with dd3 I had found Bellybelly. I stayed with my ob, and once again needed to be induced, but this time I was really scared because I now knew what could go wrong. Thankfully, once again, I had a wonderful birthing experience. So I have to say in my case, ignorance was bliss. I tend to get peeved when I read over and over and how sorry people feel for women with similar attitudes to mine. I'm happy with the way things turned out, and incredibly proud of myself for vaginally birthing 3 gorgeous girls.
Ok - got it out. I'm ready for a whipping

eta - ok, shaking after writing this - should i really feel so uncomfortable voicing my feelings?