I think in regards to transition, yes it is full on and there is lots of 'crisis' going on, but it's important to remember that it's not only the most intense stage, but shortest too. So if the support person can get her through, it will only get better - second stage or pushing usually results in fewer, less strong contractions and they can feel a little different too. They are not those huge, dragging, opening contractions but the big, pushing down contractions. Most support people have no idea or no strength to coach a woman through transition - I guess that is evident from the stats too, that women are not getting through it without intervention. Then there is the issue of having your 'crisis' before transition. It's a tricky one. I think it's all down to good preparation and good support at the end of the day, if you say you want a natural birth. It's much more acheiveable if you do. Of course the choice of carer can be an issue as well as the place of birth.

So women, if you want a natural birth, YOU CAN DO IT! GET YOURSELVES EMPOWERED AND KNOW HOW CAPABLE YOU ARE OF A NORMAL BIRTH!!! I'd love to see the stats tip more towards what the WHO says is possible.