It's funny how quickly the memory of the pain fades, two weeks ago I could remember exactly and now it's more of a vague memory. My contractions wrapped around my belly like a muscle cramp/period pain. Like a tightening that hurt. I always found my contractions made me feel like doing something - rocking/walking etc and then when you get to second stage they change and you just want to push.

I found the dummies guide to pregnancy a great general book that presents all sides equally and discusses newborns as well. i would offer it to you but the cover and the first few pages have been ripped out (lent it to family with very small children)

Good luck and all the best for your birth