Yes sometimes the problem is that a woman is so prepared and then things go the other way. That's why it's good to hear all sides of the story! That way if you have no expectations, but are aware of all your choices or scenario's, it's less likely to be so disappointing if things do go totally the opposite way to what you had "planned".
I don't believe in my case no fear meant no pain. I was actually really excited just before I hit second stage labour. I'd had no first stage and was just waiting (waters had broken that morning) and thinking how easy it was going to be, and then the most almighty contraction hit. It was in fact transition looking back and I can say now I have NEVER experienced anything like it! I am still amazed when I think back on it, it was mind blowing!!
For me birth two was far more painful, even though it was the birth I had prepared for, done yoga, meditated, decided on pain free, had my TENS, had all the breathing down patt etc, and it was far worse than number one when I was in labour for 12 hours and wasn't prepared at all. And I was scared big time. I remember asking three different Dr's about the pain and just being almost obsessed by the whole thing (fear of the unknown). But it was ok.
Wonder what htis time will bring/???