Good thread.

I think also remember after the birth when you're in hosp to remember you're in control. Unless there have been serious complications you're not sick you're basically in there for a rest.
I don't stay unless I absolutely have to. I stayed the full length twice - first time was after the hemorrhage, second time was while Sam was in NICU.

That was pretty much why I let them manage the third stage this time despite wanting to go natural at first. Not that they were all that willing to let me try natural, being on my case for the canula the second I walked in the labour room in transition! Thats probably the only bit that upset me. I told him No and to stuff off several times - the most forceful of which was after he failed to place the canula THREE TIMES! DH was freaking out by this point because he is expecting me to go catatonic from the syncope. So when I felt her head moving down I just kept pushing so he wouldn't have the time to try again in my other hand.

The unfortunate truth is, they are very good at making you feel like you don't have a choice - and when you are in labour its even worse. I actually forgot all this and actually resorted to begging the guy to leave me alone at first.