You definitely dont need to decide this early on. Although its a good time to start researching and talking to others about what pain relief worked for them and then pop i down in your birth plan.

My labour was 24hrs and 12hrs was with no pain relief. But i was exhausted and opted for the epidural because I still had a lonnnng road ahead of me with not much progress but i did have contractions building on contractions...anyway for me the epidural was the right choice.

Before that you can try many other options. The TENS machine, the hot shower, bath, gas, pilates ball...the epidural is quick to administer so dont think you have to decide before you get into the delivery room.

I hope you have a wonderful experience.

Ann