I had one with DD. I had it "turned off" before time to push so it had almost completely worn off by the time I started pushing so I could feel DD being born (highly recomend having it worn off before pushing). So by the time the stitches were done I was able to get up (a bit wobbly) & have a shower, go back to my room & admire my new baby girl. I had her at night time (10:11pm to be exact) so I wasn't doing any walking afterwards. By the time I got up for her next feed I was back to normal, no pain or wobbles etc & was able to walk down to the nursery to feed her just fine
I also didnt need a catheter (sp?), maybe they only do that if you have the epidural in for a long time? I'm sure someone will have some info on that for you.
To this day I've never had any pain etc in the area of my back where the epidural was inserted & no side effects from the epidural.

I WOULD have an epidural again. I asked for it with DS but didnt have time LOL

Can I also just add, I didnt think I could do it without the epidural which is why I asked for it the second time (DS's birth). The midwife kept telling me, "I think you can do it without the epidural, you're doing great" etc & I DID do it without the epidural. I think if you have a good support network around you then you will be able to get through without the pain relief drugs IF THATS WHAT YOU WANT. I just wanted to say that so you know.... we have more strength & a higher pain threshold than we think!

Wishing you all the best