Induction- epidural vs. IV pain meds

So I'm due to be induced at 39 weeks and I've decided I want an epidural-but I'm a little confused on how to handle contractions earlier on. I know some inductions take forever and I don't want to get the epidural too early but idk if it's typical to use another form of pain management until the epidural or not. I have the option of IV pain meds and laughing gas but not sure what the best way to go about it would be. I'm worried about drugging the baby of course.. If anyone had more than one type of pain control can you share what you did? Or if you just got the epidural at what point in the induction did you get it ?