At the risk of going against the grain, I would ask for an epidural early on - that way the pain won't be there and you can actually have a sleep during the process if it is a long labour to help yourself to re-energise ready for the pushing.

I like the hypnobirthing suggestions of others; I think I would go for that if I were having another natural birth as it would be wonderful to have a relaxed state of mind and not feel afraid.