I think the best thing to do is leave the decision up to the mother and doctor and refrain from any negative statements like, "when I had mine I didn't need it" etc. New mom's have enough worries and things they will feel guilty about. They don't need to feel looked down on by others or to feel pressured into doing it the "right" way. There is no right way as everyone is different. I had 2 epidurals and I napped during labor and enjoyed my deliveries.