Sara, you can plan to have the placenta expel naturally and if it doesn't then use the oxytocin (?). Placentas always expel within half an hour unless there is a major problem. If the Ob/dr/midwife sees that it hasn't happened, they can just give you a quick needle and away you go. Needles are routinely given in some places as it is time effective and convenient for the hospital and staff as they have to move on to the next patient. If you can wait, I would personally recommend that you do so and go through unassisted. I figure the less drugs you have the better your recovery.