Labour tips...let's see.
When you see movies or tv shows with women in labour, know that they are hamming it up for the cameras. It's not a walk in the park, but it is not THAT hard either. And it's not constant. Contraction, then rest. Contraction, then rest. And a lot of that moaning and grunting is due to exertion, not pain. I liken it to the sounds one would make if they pushed a heavy piece of furniture across the room. Hard work!
Also, I was surprised at how empowering it was. I gave birth! Wow! I felt like I could do anything!
I remember thinking after I'd had my first that labour and delivery were way easier than I thought they'd be. And so, so, so worth it. Even if you do end up with complications, the body has an amazing capacity to heal. And you get a baby at the end of it!!
And that, of course, is the best part.