hello mummy! i would say just keep an open mind and let your body decide during the labour.
from the very beginning i already knew i wanted to take epidural but still wanted to know how contraction pains felt like so i endured the contractions for a while before opting for epidural. do take into consideration the waiting time for the anaesthetist too as sometimes you might need to wait for around an hour.
i would say taking epidural has its perks as well, as it helps you to conserve your energy while waiting for labour (especially if you are induced cuz who knows when you will be fully dilated and effaced). it allows you to keep your mind at peace and get ready for the actual pushing instead of using up most of your energy crying, shouting and enduring the contraction pains. its okay if you wish to opt for a fully natural labour too, but i heard some people get traumatised by the pain especially if its their first time. anyway different people experience pain in different ways, so keep an open mind and listen to your body then. all the best!
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