Epidural

Honestly it helps a lot. I was shaking in pain with my first until I was given the epidural. Its something I didnt want but ended up getting willingly because I needed it

I just had my first and loved my epidural. For me, I liked that 1. It allowed me to feel more present in the experience after contractions felt too consuming, and 2. Unlike other pain management options the drugs do not get passed to the baby via your blood stream. *Other options are still safe for baby as recommended by your doctor, this was just a personal choice.* Only negative was being bed bound, but i was so tired by then I didnt want to move any more anyway lol

I had it with my first one after 24 hours of excruciating contractions during induction and it was the best thing ever. I was able to rest and get some energy before the pushing stage. The downside of it, was that I could not feel the contractions or anything at all while I was pushing, which made it more difficult for me. No epidural the second time around and the pushing stage was much more straightforward, as I could feel my own body. In conclusion, if I had to do it again, I would probably get epidural for the active labour part, but stop topping up right before it’s time to push

Didn’t get an epidural with my first, but I absolutely did with my second. It made it a much more positive experience for me and I had no issues with it.
We don’t plan on having more children, but if I were to give birth again I would definitely get another epidural.