Ep. 01 Agatha’s Journey: From Medicalized Expectations to Coping Without an Epidural

In this episode of *Birth Unboxed*, we sit down with Agatha to hear her transformative first birth story in a UK hospital. Initially planning for a fully medicalized birth with all the pain relief options available, Agatha's plans took an unexpected turn when an epidural wasn’t available. Instead, she relied on nitrous oxide gas (laughing gas) and found herself in the more natural side of the hospital—a space she described as almost “hippie,” complete with essential oils, a birthing tub, racks for support, and birthing balls. To her surprise, Agatha not only coped but thrived in this environment, discovering strength she didn’t know she had. By the end of her labor, she felt empowered and loved her birth experience. Now, she says she would happily choose the same approach again, heading straight for the laughing gas. Tune in to hear Agatha’s inspiring story and how embracing the unexpected can lead to a truly empowering birth.