i had an epi with a forceps delivery (and ALOT of stitches) & whilst it isn't what i would have chosen (from reading, i would have preferred to tear naturally), i had one dose of panadol & that's the only pain relief i had. i healed quickly & have had no discomfort or pain since.

not sure whether it's luck, a good ob or that i heal quickly or a combination of all 3! would still prefer to tear naturally but feel comfortable that i am able to heal from an epi if needed.