Epidural vs. Natural Birth: The Good, the Tough, and the Honest Truth
Let’s talk about the big “E” word.
No, not emotions (although those will show up, dressed in drama and ready to party).
I’m talking about epidurals—and that little voice in your head wondering, “Can I actually do this without one?”
Short answer? Yes, you absolutely can.
Long answer? Grab your tea (or your Tums)—let’s talk, mama.
🤔 So, What Is an Epidural—and How Does It Work?
An epidural is one of the most common forms of pain relief used during labor. But spoiler alert—it’s not a magic button, and it’s definitely not Tylenol.
Here’s the rundown:
It’s a regional anesthetic, meaning it numbs the lower half of your body (but keeps your brain very much awake).
A nurse anesthetist or anesthesiologist will first numb a spot on your lower back with a local anesthetic (this is usually the “ouchiest” part—think sharp pinch or bee sting).
Then, they slide a thin catheter into the epidural space near your spine. Don’t worry—the needle comes out, the catheter stays in.
Medication flows through the catheter during labor, blocking those intense pain signals from your waist down.
Sounds a little sci-fi, right? But it’s super common, especially in U.S. hospitals.
🩺 What does it feel like?
Many moms say they feel pressure or tightness but not sharp pain. You might still feel contractions and the urge to push (which is a great thing), but usually with much less intensity. Some mamas feel totally numb; others feel more of a dull pressure. It varies!
✅ The Good (a.k.a. Why Some Moms Love Their Epidural):
Very effective pain relief (usually rated 9–10/10 effectiveness).
You can rest—or even nap—during long labors. (Yes, I’ve seen a mama nap through transition. Iconic.)
Can reduce anxiety and help some mamas feel more in control.
Super helpful in high-intervention births—like inductions or C-sections.
Because it's spinal and doesn't go into your bloodstream, it DOES NOT reach your baby.
⚠️ Possible Risks or Downsides:
May cause a drop in your blood pressure, which can affect baby.
You’ll likely be stuck in bed once it’s placed (no more labor lunges or hip sways).
May slow labor for some mamas, especially if placed too early.
May make pushing more difficult due to reduced sensation.
Small risks like spinal headaches or incomplete pain relief (hello, “hotspots” or numb-on-one-side-only weirdness).
Epidurals aren’t good or bad—they’re just a tool. And like any tool, it depends on how and when it’s used.
💛 Why Some Mamas Choose a Natural Birth Instead
Let’s be clear: Unmedicated (a.k.a. natural) birth isn’t about proving strength—it’s often about connection.
Here’s why many mamas go this route:
They want to stay fully in tune with their body and baby.
They value freedom to move during labor (squat, sway, dance, maybe even twerk).
They want to avoid medication side effects.
They believe birth is a natural process—not a medical event.
And no, you don’t have to be a crystal-carrying, home-birthing goddess to choose this path. I’ve seen women rock natural births in the hospital, and guess what? Not a crystal in sight. (Though if you do have a rose quartz tucked in your bra, no judgment—I love it for you.)
🧠 How to Prepare for a Natural Birth in the Hospital
If you’re seriously considering going natural, don’t just wing it. Hospital birth can be beautiful, but it’s also a medical environment with routines, policies, and bright lights. Preparation is the secret sauce.
Here’s what works:
✅ 1. Understand What to Expect in Each Stage of Labor
Know what early labor feels like (and what to do while you wait it out at home), what active labor really looks like, and what’s happening in your body so you don’t get blindsided by the intensity. Birth education is everything. Sign up for a birth class that actually explains this (shameless plug: mine does!).
✅ 2. Practice Comfort Techniques/Pain Management Ahead of Time
Start practicing things like:
Breathing techniques (slow, rhythmic, audible exhales).
Movement + position changes (squatting, swaying, hands and knees - channel your inner animal).
Massage + counterpressure (your partner pushing on your hips or back).
Warm water therapy (shower, tub—if your hospital has one)
Birth affirmations + visualizations (yes mindset matters).
The key? Train your nervous system ahead of time. Your brain needs to know, “Oh, this is familiar. I know how to cope.” These aren't just “nice to haves.” They’re your labor toolkit.
✅ 3. Bring a Rockstar Support Team
This could be your partner, a doula (highly recommend!), your mom, or your best friend. Make sure whoever’s with you knows your preferences, respects your goals, and doesn’t panic when you roar like Beyoncé mid-contraction.
✅ 4. Talk to Your Provider (Now, Not Later)
Ask questions like:
“What are my options for moving during labor?”
“Will I have access to the tub or birth ball?”
“Do you support natural births in the hospital?”
These answers tell you a lot. If your hospital isn’t very natural-birth-friendly, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible—but it does mean you’ll want to advocate clearly and confidently. If their answers make you feel dismissed… trust your gut.
✅ 5. Set the Vibe in Your Hospital Room
Nope, you don’t have to settle for hospital beige and fluorescent lights.
Bring things to help you feel calm and grounded:
LED candles or fairy lights.
Essential oils (lavender, peppermint, citrus—you do you).
Your birth playlist or birth affirmations.
Fuzzy socks, your favorite robe, a photo of your baby’s ultrasound—whatever keeps you feeling like you.
Make that space feel like yours—because your nervous system births better in safe, familiar environments.
🤷♀️ But What If I Change My Mind?
Listen to me: Getting an epidural does not mean you failed.
Birth is unpredictable. You’re not a robot. You’re a human, doing a powerful thing.
If you planned to go unmedicated and later ask for pain relief, you adapted. You made a decision in the moment. That’s not weakness—it’s wisdom.
You didn’t “tap out.” You tuned in. That’s badass.
💬 Final Thoughts from Your Birth-Obsessed Bestie
Epidural or unmedicated—this isn’t a competition. An unmedicated birth isn’t about proving your strength. And getting an epidural isn’t a sign of weakness.
The real power is about:
Knowing your options.
Understanding how birth works.
Surrounding yourself with a support team that truly sees you.
And trusting that your body was built for this.
So whether you roar like a lioness or breathe like a yogi, know this:
You’re powerful. You’re prepared. And you’ve got this.
With all the love,
Your birth-obsessed bestie 💛
P.S. Ready to get fully prepped for your hospital birth—without the overwhelm or outdated advice?
👉🏾 Grab my FREE Hospital Birth Guide
It’s packed with checklists, affirmations, and a birth vision worksheet to help you map your birth plan that actually makes sense.