For me the contractions were the most painful part. Dont get me wrong, pushing is hard stuff, and you really need to PUSH (easier said than done when you cant imagine that coming out!). Aidan was 9pounds9ounces and I managed to push him out naturally. I remember just moaning 'its stinging, he's hurting me' (I knew I was having a boy) but I also remember thinking the stinging aint as bad as those horrible contractions!

Good luck, it is an amazing experience and your body will know what to do, and dont forget to REALLY push when the time comes.