I was induced and so my contractions come on hard and fast. The only way I can describe them is like a REALLY long and intense leg cramp but in your pelvic area. As for the pushing stage I felt no pain, couldnt even feel the contractions by then as I had had an epi.
But it's all worth it in the end, the very second that your bub's is in your arms you will have long forgotton about all the pain.