hi,
i had a very traumatic birth with dd no drugs no gas a 3rd degree tear- i was screaming my head off at my dp 2 help me iwas very stressed and was disapointed in my birth. i had ds 11weeks ago and going into the labour i told my midwife i was planning on an epidural-i wanted a calm birth but still wanted to feel him and my body telling me what to do, so waters broke 4am got to hosp at 6am was dealing with it very nicely got too 1pm and decided to have the epidural, i was already unable to walk around- could only stand by my bed as i was hooked 2 ctg bub was stressed and they didnt want to risk anything, so epidural was inserted and only worked on right side so they pullled it out and started again so i ended up having a semi spinal... was fantastic i was able to feel my contractions and the urge to push... down side was the swelling in my legs and feet after i got out of bed 2hrs after i spent that whole time bonding wit bubs anyway. i had to be aided in the shower my swelling was there 4 three weeks after birth... i now have a lump where my epi went in and it hurts at times... but i was able to watch & feel bubs head coming out it was a beautiful thing and evn tho i have some side effects that flare up now and then i would def have another one!
i also think its gr8 that u researching and gettin ideas. at the end of the day do whats comfortable for you and wat u need -go for wat makes u happy and calm! all the best and wishing u a very hh preg!