As a mom who has given birth both naturally (no pain control) and with an epidural, I would suggest the epidural every time. I was able to relax more and enjoy the birth, rather than endure an incredible amount of agony.
For the woman, I would argue always it is easier, of course, to get an epi. But it is men, the lack of men that is, that concerns me. Where does this lack begin???? That is all I am focused on...; and a willingness of him to go down that road w/ her ... that lack of willingness that is ... that is what i am saying is the problem...