Expecting mothers have several options available. They can choose to deliver their baby with little pain and discomfort, or choose natural birth and endure an un-medicated labor and delivery. There are many advantages and disadvantages to a natural birth. Before choosing a method, it is important for women to discuss the options with their physician, educate themselves on the birth process, and carefully assess whether they can endure the pain associated with an un-medicated delivery. Unfortunately, many women are unable to withstand the intensity of labor contractions and delivery.

There are good and valid reasons to choose a natural birth. For starters, these births result in no side effects from medications. Following the delivery, it's common for mom and baby to feel a little "drugged." It can take several hours for the effects of the medication to wear off. Some people want to be fully alert throughout the entire process and refuse any type of medication. Additionally, expecting mothers who choose a natural delivery do not have to be hooked up to various monitors, nor will they need a catheterization. Without medication, you are able to move around, use the restroom, take a shower, etc.

The primary advantage of accepting medication is that you'll go through the entire labor and delivery with very little pain. Throughout the "pushing" phase, you might experience heavy pelvic pressure and discomfort. The discomfort is manageable, and you won't endure the excruciating reality of natural birth. Some women plan on a natural birth, and change their mind halfway through the process. A long labor can exhaust an expecting mother and make sleeping very difficulty. Once physicians administer an epidural, the pain subsides and the mother is able to relax and rest. Since the lower half of the body is numb, those who accept pain medication require a bladder catheter.