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I've worked with women who were made to feel guilty because they were tired and felt like crap.
I've seen biddies gossiping about them if they've had to lay down on the couch in the ladies room. I've heard flippant remarks because they were going to be out on maternity leave, and because they don't work ten hours a day "like they used to".

I, on the other hand, shut 'em down when I mention they constantly leave for work because of their children that are already here. I can do that, as I don't have children. It's somewhat of a food chain example of what goes on. Women with children seem to have no sympathy for preganant women going through it the first time. They "pull rank" like "if you think this is bad, just wait until he/she gets here".

I found that many women were just horrible to me when I was pregnant. Like running in front of me to get into the door at a store , because I was moving too slowly at 9 months pregers.

One woman sped up when I was crossing the street to get to my car- so she could make a point of how slow I was. There was a police office on the corner who cam over to me to see if I was OK and to see if I wanted him to chase her down. ( I wasn't THAT slow).

I was even yelled at for parking in "stork" parking by a woman in her 30's.

Each time it was a man who would try to help me, or hold a door for me, or say "Just ignore her".

Men, many times, are more compassionate than the gals.

I had one child with an epidural, and the last 4 without. 3 with a midwife. Personally, I LOVED having them naturally - it is the most incredible experience to go through the birthing process naturally.

But, that said, it was my choice. I don't think having them naturally means that you are a better mom.

And someone mentioned husbands telling their wives to pretend it doesn't hurt - not a good idea! My husband learned with our first one to just hold my hand and keep his mouth SHUT! He was absolutely great at the natural births... he rubbed my back if I wanted him to, held onto me when I wanted him to... but kept his mouth shut. =) During the first birth he kept telling me "You can do it!" I said "I can NOT, so shut up." Moms are not especially kind and cordial during birth, usually. =)

If your wife wants to have a natural birth, then support her in every way she desires. If she doesn't, then it really should be her decision, because no one can do this for her. I would have murdered my husband during labor if it had all been his idea! ;-D

As far as people's opinions, thank them for their concern, and then do what you want to do. Having 5 children - 2.5 more than accepted - I have learned the art of smiling pleasantly at people's asinine comments. It also helps to have a great sense of humor.