These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Carmen, 29: When I had my first child, I didn't use pain medication at all. I was very firm about not using any, and luckily I didn't have terrible pain. For this pregnancy, I had an OB who encouraged me to plan ahead "just in case." It's a good thing I did, because I had such unbearable back labor that I had to have some kind of pain relief. I'm glad I'd already gone over my options and decided that a light epidural would be acceptable if needed. Having that relief, but still being able to feel enough to push, made all the difference in the world!

Theresa, 34: I am so nervous about the idea of having a needle in my back that I just couldn't consider an epidural. Actually, I couldn't come up with any type of pain medication that I was comfortable with taking. Women have had babies for centuries without pain medication, and I managed to, too.

Anne, 37: Pain shuts me down, but I really want to feel good about having my baby. I've talked to my nurse-midwife about the risks and benefits of having an epidural, and it seems like the perfect fit for me.

Courtney, 22: I didn't really think too much about how I was going to handle labor pain. When I was in the middle of labor, they told me I could have an epidural, and I just said yes. I didn't like it at all. I couldn't feel enough to push. Then, I had a bad headache for days afterwards. Of course, it only matters that my baby is healthy, but I won't have an epidural again.