Hey Sarah,
I'd like to think I can do a natural birth, but really - I have no idea! My Mum had 2 shockers, and 2 good ones, all with epidurals (my older sisters epi one was stuffed up, and my older bro was a c/s) My sister was induced with both, one was an epidural cause of high BP and the other was completely natural (Which she is really proud of, but was super quick!)
Thats all I have to go on as to what mine might be like. I'm trying to do some reading about the effects of drugs on the "natural" order of how things work, and its really interesting reading about the natural chemicals the body makes to get through these things.
My sister says that in Japan there is very litttle intervention, and the mothers pretty much do it themselves - they are quite shocked at the amount of intervention the western world takes.
So - I dont want gas and pethidine, but I'll consider the epidural if I have to, but I'm really planning on going the hot/ice packs. I have had so many sporting injuries, and I know what pain is! I have also had very painful periods, and I know heat really helps with the cramps. Much more so than medication! I think alot of it is like what Kelli said - and I love the idea of a rose opening - I think that sounds great.
My Mum told me you have to treat each contraction as a wave - go up with it, and down, and thats how I've always treated my period cramps.
I don't know - I think it is just really important to go in with an open mind - try anything, and maybe find something - liek walking - that will work for 10 minutes. Then maybe try something else!!
It will be interesting......