Is there any other alternative to epidural to have a pain-free delivery?

You can consider Hypnobirthing. It uses self-hypnosis, guided imagery and special breathing techniques to bring about a short, easier, and more enjoyable birth experience. I do not personally know anyone who has tried that, but you can find out more here: http://sg.theasianparent.com/hypnobirthing-singapore/ Here’s another article with a list of methods of natural pain relief, which includes: - Walking around - Sitting/rocking on a birthing (exercise) ball - Taking a hot shower (aimed at your low back) - Sitting up and rocking - Massaging your back (well, have someone else do it) - Counter-pressure on the back (especially for back labor).  Try tennis balls. - Massage oils for all-over massage - Chiropractic adjustment (some will make housecalls) - Prayer/meditation - Focusing on the baby and “opening” - Changing positions - Soothing music - Foot massage (pressure points; can take your mind off the pain) - Getting in a pool of water - Staying hydrated - Eating small snacks, if you want to The article also mentioned some tips the writer, as a doula, uses to help ease the delivery process for the mother. Do have a read. http://wellnessmama.com/6657/natural-birth-options/

I did not have epidural for both of my deliveries. I used breathing strategies (long breath and short breath management for different type of pain). If you do not wish to have epidural, you need to have a very strong determination and communicate your intention with your husband. For my 1st delivery, my husband kept asking me to take although I insisted not to. For my 2nd delivery, my husband knew my intention and he supported me thoroughly. I am lucky that both of my labor were short (3hours for 1st and 20mins for 2nd). However, if my labor is longer (more than 24 hours), I might opt for epidural. I used laughing gas only. The peak contractions pain actually very similar to the stomachache before diarrhea. After it went off, you will not feel pain and need to be ready for the next wave of contraction. So far, I used breathing strategies to distract myself from the pains as my energy all concentrated in the breathing.

My best friend told me she did not use epidural but was given "laughing gas" instead. "Laughing gas" is the layman's term (and a rather cute one at that) for nitrous oxide. It is a popular way for pain relief in alot of countries around the world. Apparently, there are plenty of reasons to favour laughing gas for pain relief during labour. The sensation of being on nitrous oxide falls somewhere between feeling nothing and feeling everything. It also gives the mommy a sense of control, since she is the one who determines when she needs the gas and when she doesn't. You can read more about laughing gas here: http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/07/using-laughing-gas-to-relieve-the-pain-of-childbirth/374124/

Yes! Look for gentle birth, hypnobirth programmes to get you prepared and know what to expect.