I just gave birth and wasn't sure what to choose either. I had really painful contractions, but when I asked for pain relief, the hospital took some time to give it because they had to check the fetal heart rate, wait for doctor etc. By the time they were going to give the pain relief, I was fully dilated and it was too late for the drugs. It was extremely painful and next time I would ask earlier.
bear with it if possible. epidural has side effect. my gynea don't recommend it but he said hospital policy, they will still standby.