My experiences are similar to Kelly's,
#1 I was induced in hospital after waters breaking 2 days earlier & having only mild contractions really... So the oxytocin & full on contractions & then having Pethidine... ( I have been adamant NOT to have an Epi, I am more scared of that than childbirth!)
So I knew noone was gonna talk me in to one....!!!

#2 I laboured at home all day happily with Mum & family... Until it started getting crucial, when I then went into hospital & if it wasnt for my bulging membranes I would have been ready to push on arrival, within an hour or 2 of being at hospital my waters broke & I could start pushing, I had a suck on gas & threw that away & totally focused on what was happening within, I am happy to say I was not aware at the time that DD#2 had stopped breathing after swalling meconium, but when midwife said baby needs to be born now, may I cut you, I was so focused on having this baby that I agreed, no pain relief & I felt nothing down there at all, baby was born perfect & I also feel so empowered I cabnt tell you how thrilled I was to have been focused & in tune with my body to just let the wave of contractions guide me...
I told the midwife I would not have an epidural & she said she wouldnt even raise the issue with me, it was my body, my baby & I was making the choices...
I went to a public hospital, did not know this midwife at all. but she had been delivering at that hospital since 1976, so i was happy & confident with her!!

I loved this birthing experience!!!!

Tell them when you arrive, that you DO NOT WANT an epidural...!!!

Good Luck.