I'm not a nurse, yet, but I have a bunch of kids. I had some of the kids naturally, and some with epidurals, and one with an induction and no epidural. You need an advocate who can really stand up for you. I once came in to L&D adamant that I didn't want an epidural. I needed to be induced due to bleeding, and although they thought I was a crazy person (the contractions are stronger with the induction), they allowed me to do this sans epidural. It all would have been a lot easier if my husband had been able to stand up for me (he is uncomfortable with medical procedures and in hospitals in general).
It was harder when the doctor came in and demanded something I didn't want. That was the toughest. I didn't want my water broken with one of my later babies (my experience was that it made my contractions slow down or stop), and he insisted. He came in at 11:30 p.m. and he was already in a mood. I didn't want to hurt the relationship with the guy who was about to deliver me, so I gave in. They broke my water, and my labor stopped. I needed pitocin. One of the nurses commented that I had been right all along, but she did this when the doctor was outside somewhere. I didn't go back to him for my next birth.
Every labor is different, so it does require flexibility on your part. I never saw the point in birth plans, I just let them know what I preferred when I arrived on the L&D floor. I said it as respectfully as possible. Most were helpful. Some became cold and critical. I wish I had taken an assertive person who knew my wishes 100% and could have stood firm with and for me.
I hope you have an easy birth, the one you are dreaming of, and a healthy baby.
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