Tanya, I am sure you will make the right decision for you. I just wanted to point out my experience, as I believe many women have an epidural out of fear of not being able to cope, rather than not actually being able to cope. And the medical staff often seem very keen to push you into it.

If you haven't already, grab a copy of New Active Birth by Janet Bakalikis??? - whoops can't remember how to spell her name. It made a huge difference to me when birthing DS2. It is probably the most useful book a pg woman can read.

Best of luck hun, I'm sure it will all go very well.