For me, the two main things that got me through my labour, were the skills i put to use after reading Birth Skills (this book was my BIBLE !) - and the 2nd most important thing was that i had Doula. she kept me focused and kept reminding that my body could do this and that all the pain i was feeling was bringing me closer to meeting my DD. I cannot recommend enough that if you can afford it, a Doula makes a huge difference.

I had a 7 hour induced labour (with gels only) no drugs, no tearing, no further assistance. I pushed for nearly 2 hrs and not once did my ob or any other person in the room mention a CS or assisted delivery and i ASKED about it! - my ob said there was no need for a cs as i was doing well and DD would be here before i knew it