Need some honest opinions about epidural

I do not do well with pain management, I never have. When I think about delivering naturally my heart rate jumps up in to my throat lol. So I’ve never even considered not getting an epidural, it’s been in my birth plan since before I even conceived.

But now I’m 30 weeks and my whole family is against epidurals and I just keep getting told there is a chance of being paralyzed after (???) and suffering life long complications. I also feel like there is a tiiiiiny bit of fear mongering on social media about them by women who think getting an epidural is “the easy way out” so to speak. But I’m like millions of women get an epidural with no complications so how bad can it be??

So I’m just freaking out now. Anyone who’s had an epidural, what was your experience? And do you regret it? How did you feel post birth and any long term complications?

Thank you 🥺

ETA: thank you all so much for sharing your stories/continuing to share. This sub is the best place for pregnant women to share their fears and worries and get so much reassurance! Grateful to all of you!!