My only concern is if I can let myself be so physically undignified
Claire......I can totally relate to this. I always used to oke with my DH that my biggest fears in labour were doing a poo as I pushed, and I was always joking with my OB about how I would like to give birth with my undies ON please.

However, when it came down to it, the hormones must have REALLY kicked in. I was at home, with contractions about every 5 mins, when I realised I ought to go to the hospital. DH was all fired up, ready to go, and was astounded that I felt no need to get changed or put some face on.....(normally I would NEVER go out of the house without my face on or without a decent outfit on)....I looked down at my big floppy maternity moo, and realised that I couldn't give a rats. And from that point on, all my inhibitions left me..........

I apologised to the midwive the next day (after giving birth to Olivia) for nearly ripping her uniform off her, and for swearing etc, and she laughed and said "It is healthy to lose yourself in the birth".........
(I have since reverted to "type" and am again a lady with polite and gracious manners, but I know that when I give birth to #3 I shall be happy to squat, swear, let it all hang out......whatever it takes!! LOL!)