Yes childbirth is a natural process, but things can go wrong and therefore it is better to be in the right place for the help you need if this happens, also people have different pain thresholds and whilst some can cope with a lot of pain, others can't so take the pain relief if you need it. It all boils down to what is best for mother and baby at the time. I hope that your friend doesn't have too much longer to wait

Betty x