Fenella,

I had a birth plan which was that I didn't want any drugs and would use gas as a last resort. How that changed...

17 1/2 hrs labour to 2cm then augmented with syntocin (sp?) for 6 hrs. Pain was really bad so asked for gas, then an epidural. Only got to 3 cm and baby's HB was dropping to 80 with each contraction. The cord was wrapped around her neck twice so I had an emergency C-sect. Will be doing my birth story soon.

This was never part of the plan but I coped well with it. Have not felt like I failed or have not really been emotional about it. Baby has to come out and I know that this was the safest way. Whatever happens, when you have a healthy little baby in your arms you shouldn't worry how the labour went if it wasn't to your plans.

I wish you all the best and hope your labour goes well.