Sasha, I loved the gas with both of mine as well - as much for the focus on breathing as anything else. It helped me to get into pattern with my breathing.

I had an epidural with the 1st one but it was not working completely when it came time to have a forcep delivery. I felt that it slowed my labour down and decreased my ability to push effectively resulting in forceps.

I have however heard people absolutely rave about epidural and want them in as soon as their labour starts. It really is a personal choice though and you don't really know how you are going to react to the pain, or how effective the drugs will be on your body.

My suggestion would be to do alot of reading up (more than the stock standard books) Kelly has listed some good ones on BB and have in depth discussions with your GP/OBS about your options and preferences.

Goodluck with it !