I took lamaze class for my first pregnancy and learned the breathing and focal points. After each child I could get out of bed, talk to friends on the phone and not feel spaced out. I'm really happy with my choice of natural childbirth. All I have to say is take the drugs. I had no drugs for my first and a very mild drug for my second.
Massage can do wonders for the pain.
I also believe that a lot of it is in your mind set. I knew with my second child I didn't want an Epidural. I just didn't like the whole idea of it. I have two beautiful children, ages 4 and 6. I became determined to go au natural.