I had two children in the past two years both with NO DRUGS OF ANY KIND. I went to a birthing center where there was not an option of an epidural at the time. It's usually a choice you make to have kids and to either be numb and miss out on the physical process of birth or actually be a participant. I chose to participate in the birth of my children and it wasn't painless or easy. With both I had over 20 hours of labor (back labor with the first). It was extremely painful but very rewarding knowing that I did it without epidurals or any other kinds of drugs. You body produces natural drugs during the labor process so you are able to withstand more pain than you would otherwise. The babies weren't drugged either (which happens when you get epidurals) but were alert. I didn't have to spend days at the birthing center or even overnight. Within less than half an hour I was up and walking around. I wasn't running, but at least I wasn't incapacitated due to drugs. Fortunately, I didn't have to have a caesarean.
Nobody likes to suffer or see their children suffer, but dependence on any drugs (over-the-counter or prescription) makes one weak and the body used to needing more and more of the drugs. I've had several pediatricians suggest giving my children Tylenol or some other pain medication when they get sick or are teething. We don't give them any pain medications or take any ourselves. It makes both them and us stronger and less dependent on doctors out there who want nothing more than to take more of our money. I am completely AGAINST epidurals.