I was terrified & didn't want the epi. After 36 hrs of labor, I took it, & labored another 9 before having my baby. It wasn't anywhere near as bad as I expected. I was able to move around (but not stand up), and could feel my feet & legs. When I felt pins & needles, they decreased my dose & I was fine. Had no trouble pushing or anything. When I get preggo again, I plan to try it w/o the epi, but know that if I need/want it, it is there & helps A LOT. That being said, I'm guessing I'll prob wind up taking it... it really helped a ton, & I was actually able to enjoy the labor (not dread the contractions, as I did for hours before taking it).