Jessica, wrt the epi, there was a good thread getting around a couple of days ago, don't tknow if you have seen it? I will see if I can find it & post a link.

FWIW I had one labour with, one without (& then one CS).... I would vote for labouring without one anyday, BUT I think you are very wise to keep an open mind, don't be disappointed too much by how your labour goes for you as with all the planning in the world, it can be unpredictable.

I'm not very good with pain either, but the pain of labour is different. Personally I'd rather be in labour than have toothache