I had everything with my first as well. First the pethidine which put me to sleep. That was probably a good thing because I was terrified. After that wore off I had the gas but was too frantic to be able to use it properly. Then the epi which was fantasic. With my 2nd labour I wasnt as scared and coped with the gas. The important thing is to learn how to use it before you REALLY need it. You have to start sucking before the contraction starts as the gas takes a few second to work. With my first I was sucking on the mouthpiece at the peak of the contraction so was feeling th benefit of the gas in between contractions. Not good.The gas is great because it really helps you to concentate on your breathing. I LOVE THE GAS!!!!!