Maybe "easier" was the wrong word to use.... I don't mean easy in general, I think what I mean is kinder on your body than induced? ( If that makes sense). Going from 0 - 10cm in 4 hours was almost unbearable, and i'm not suggesting that natural labour is "easy" but perhaps hopefully just a bit kinder on the body making it easier to cope?

I think the real reason I want to know about this is because if it's significantly more bearable than last time I might give the epidural a miss and just go the gas again, if it's the same as last time though i'm considering having it despite the associated risks because I honestly don't think I can do it again.

People always say that once you've done it once you know what you're in for and are more prepared, is it normal to be this petrified 2nd time round if the 1st birth wasn't "traumatic"???