Planning an unmedicated birth today seems almost impossible. Most friends, family members, co-workers will share that an epidural is the only way to give birth. Having attended births for almost 25 years now, I will say that for some moms, an epidural birth is a perfect birth for them.
Recently I've attended a few first births that have definitely been "marathons", not "sprints" lasting over 30 hours. What have I witnessed? I think a longer labor really strengthens a couples' sense of endurance and capabilities more than the quicker ones. Their determination to continue to change positions, move forward through the wee hours of the night is a privilege to witness. I've seen dads crash for a 20 minute power nap and then continue on for hours giving support. I've seen the laboring moms doze off in a certain position only to then continue on for hours of walking, lunging, showers, etc. Of course, having an additional support person has helped them both to continue through those hours of work. But this lesson of strength helps these families when they bring their newborn home and are dealing with many sleep deprived days...they have experience to look back on and know they can handle the demands of a newborn. In some cases, those families have re-evaluated their goals after many hours and decided to change their plans. Those families are still amazing because they worked well beyond what they thought their limits were, and in the end were comfortable with choices made.
The one predictable thing about labor - is that it is totally unpredictable. Two factors that are helpful to having an unmedicated birth are: no major medical issues develop and baby cooperates in achieving a great birthing position. Develop goals for your birth, hopefully add a professional support person (doula) to the team, and then enjoy the journey. Whether you end your labor medicated, surgically or unmedicated, holding your newborn will still make the journey worth the effort!
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