What is the likelihood that i will give birth without needing an epidural?

That depends: About half of women get epidurals in the US. Whether you are part of the half that does depends on what you want and how prepared your are for birth. Birthing prep classes (lamaze, Bradley method) will give you techniques for handling the pain without an epidural. Other women use IV medications (like fentanyl) to take the edge off. Some women just need an epidural and there is no shame in that.

Birth: There is nothing wrong with giving birth without an epidural. In facet in most countries of the world this is the norm. Western societies use epidurals a lot more than they should. They also do a lot more cesarean sections than other countries. If you want to deliver without an epidural then go for it - there is nothing wrong-its part of life.

It depends : On your goals. Natural childbirth in most cases is a great approach to labor. Sometimes there are medical issues that necessitate an anesthetic intervention, like the need for a c section. Good luck.