am i being naive to think i can have a natural birth?

[Adnil]

Gracie - I had people roll their eyes when I said I really wanted to avoid pain relief. In the end I chose who to talk about it to & who not to. I only discussed it with those who were supportive. This may sound silly, but in a way all the negatives from other people just made me more determined to prove them wrong

I had another support person other than DH - so I can highly recommend getting a Doula. It just made me feel more confident that I had someone else there to help me through it.

[Artechim]

I am also hoping for a natural birth. Unfortunately due to GD I may be induced a bit early so I am not sure how it will all fit together. DH is very willing to support me and help me get through without drugs - we know what is there if it is needed but I plan to try all other options first. My hospital doesn't have a problem with physiological third stage, provided there isn't too much bleeding.

I have not discussed pain relief with anyone other than DH. A few people have told me to go straight for the epidural, I just nod my head and let it go.

I am just hoping that I will go into labour before 39 weeks to avoid the induction pressure from the hospital.

BTW, we also don't know the gender of the baby - I am hoping the curiosity will be a bit of inspiration if I start to run out of steam during labour.