This time the pain was less and so was the fear, so there was lots of joy. You can feel them, but it's not painful, just like pressure. I would tell other moms to really think about your choices and do what's right for you. And if you're in so much pain that you can't bear it, go for the Epi. I didn't even feel it when they did mine.
Labor is only a day and only a portion of it is really intense.
Epidurals, like any drugs, are not without their side effects. Studies have shown that epidurals and other drugs make babies more prone to drug addiction later in life. I had an epidural. When I have our next baby there will be NO doubt in my mind that I will have another epidural. They can really help take any of the edge off for you and your partner as well.