Getting an epidural or not getting an epidural was the BIG question for us before our daughter was born. We quickly realized after she arrived, that interventions to help the baby and ensure a safe delivery or the means to control the pain is a wonderful thing, if it's needed. Your value as a mother, even as a woman, isn't determined by the use (or non use) of such things. Blog circles and parenting sites can put much undue pressure on a woman to go natural, when really no birth is better than any other, so long as the mom and baby are healthy. The wonder of the miracle in your arms, this tiny precious baby, is really all that matters. Every birth is different, and will probably be very unlike how you plan it in your head before those contractions start. I would encourage all pregnant mothers to focus on the health of the baby and themselves. Epidural or not, you have been blessed with a wonderful gift ... your baby. Cherish every moment.