After my OB crossed his arms and informed me that I would change my mind about: early induction, epidural and episiotomy, and had no useful reading materials for helping me prepare for birth, I decided to have a natural birth with a midwife at home when I was 30. The day before Hezekai was due labor started. My mom walked me around the block a few times then after a nap my labor advanced dramatically. The contractions became distracting and I didn't want to lay down or walk much anymore, so I got into the tub. That's when I melted into labor. The pain of contractions was reduced dramatically, it still hurt, but I could relax into it all and we could laugh (especially when I asked for some Tylenol) and converse again. We set up a kiddie pool on the back porch and I would alternate between the tub and pool every hour so my labor wouldn't stall and I could use the potty. When I had to lay down to check dialation the pain was excruciating, now I feel bad for any woman who has to labor in a bed, even hanging from my Mom's shoulders (hubby was too tall) was better than that. I labored a total of 21 hours, and delivered on my knees gripping the headboard, my son was beautiful, my man was right by my side and my Mom and midwife were wonderful too. I am 34 now and expecting my second son next month, another home birth, the "pain" won't scare me off, the EFFORT of labor and delivery are something to prepare for with research, exercise and finding peace in yourself.