I'm glad you asking here, but also make sure to talk extensively with your doctor about what to expect and get some books on the topic, too. There's a lot to learn about!

During the last three months of pregnancy, a fetus typically turns itself around, so its kind of standing on its head. Babies come out head first, so the fetus turns to get in the “birthing” position. The fetus also usually “drops” when it gets closer to delivery time.

During the third trimester, your body starts preparing, too. Your muscles and ligaments will loosen up. You might feel off balance and like you’re not in charge of your own body. You may also begin feeling contractions in your uterus. These are called “Braxton-Hicks,” which prepare the uterus for the work of pushing the baby out. They also help to slowly open your cervix. 

When you go into labor, these contractions will intensify and they’ll start to hurt. Your “water” might break. This is the amniotic fluid that has helped keep your baby alive and growing the past nine months. Once your water breaks, delivery has to follow soon after, or else there is a risk of infection to both mother and baby.

Giving birth is a natural process. Your body will do the work, without much help, in most cases. Riding through the contractions is the toughest part. Most hospitals offer birthing classes. You’d be smart to take one because they explain the whole process and give you ways to cope with the pain.

You should also talk to your doctor about pain killers during delivery. Do you want an epidural, which is an injection that basically numbs your pelvic area? Your doctor can talk to you about the pros and cons of this, as well as other types of pain killers.