It's true you forget the pain! BUT if I think hard enough I can remember it I didn't have the waves of pain starting at the top and working down (I remember reading somewhere that that is how you tell if it's a real contraction?) Mine was kind of a burning period pain type pain. I held a heatpack under my belly the whole time, and that seemed to help. My pain was definitely all down low.. but then that makes sense, as that's where it's opening up to let the baby out! hehe.

But definitely remember that it peaks.. and goes away! That's nature's way of helping us cope I think. Now if I get period pain, I'm crippled over and crying like a big baby LOL. But you dont' get a break from period pain!

Going drug free - my advice is be aware of transition! (the last 1/2hr or so before pushing) When you're ready to scream for drugs.. wanna go home.. want to sleep.. just can't go on.. chances are you're almost there. Make sure your support can recognise it, so they can keep telling you you're nearly there and that you can do it! Also, I found that focusing on why I'm having the pain, and picturing it doing it's job of opening up for bub helped heaps too. It wasn't a senseless pain.. like a migraine is kinda an unknown pain, with no particular reason.. so I don't cope with them very well... but knowing the contractions have a purpose helps HEAPS.

Pushing for me was a complete relief, and I felt no pain with it at all.. just a pushing sensation like doing a massive poo. Crowning.. I don't really remember any burning.. only at the very point that the head actually came out, the dr was helping the skin over his head a bit, and that hurt.. but it was so momentary compared to the rest of the labour.

All the best for your preparations Hope your pg goes along well, and don't fear the pain of childbirth.. it's great!