Labor Concerns

Since this is my first birth, I still feel a hospital is probably best, in case of anything unexpected. However, my biggest concern is that the hospital staff will undermine my confidence to do this naturally, pressure me to accept interventions I don't want, and interfere where it's not medically necessary. I have no problem with accepting treatment if a problem arises, but otherwise I want to be left alone with no artificial time limits. I know that once they start any medications, your alternative options evaporate. I fear that more than the pain of labor. I've learned that all our local hospitals use pitocin to induce or speed up labor with 50-60% of their patients,and have a cesarean rate of at least 25%. I can't possibly believe that half of all women are unable to begin and continue labor on their own, and one quarter can't deliver their babies without major surgery. They seem too eager to jump in and take over, and it worries me. We'll be interviewing a couple doulas in person next week to get a better idea of our options. I want someone who is familiar with the local hospitals and their policies. I'm glad that I'm only five months along and still have time to consider my options.