It is very typical, but we live in a day and age where all this is so acessible, the seduction of the epidural great, and we often don't have known, experienced, continuous support. The best outcomes often happen when you do have these things, but not in every case because there are the exceptions who will no doubt post and tell me so! You might like to read these stats: Victorian Birth Statistics - What's Happening During Birth and also an article I wrote, Mission: Natural Birth.
Our own mothers and women earlier than this birthed in a very bad era for birth, they don't come from good experiences most of the time and things still have a long way to go. In the 70's (think Leboyer), the birthing scene was all about baby and the most gentle and comfortable birth experience for the baby - so drug free birth was important. Now it's all about the most comfortable experience possible for the mother.
I did it with my second and never thought I could after an augmented / epidural birth the first time. But I stayed at home as long as I could cope and when I couldn't cope anymore and started talking drugs, I went in to find I was 9cms and no hope of drugs. So I relied on those around me to coach me through and I was pushing quick smart. It is possible. Get yourself some good support, read some good books - New Active Birth by Janet Balaskas, The Thinking Woman's Guide to A Better Birth by Henci Goer.
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