These things do not always happen but are perfectly normal if they do. Contractions are 2-3 minutes apart, and generally last 90 seconds. Remember the pain is not any worse, just closer together. Try a shower, a tub, or cloths. Your contractions will probably space out to be about 4 minutes apart and last 60-90 seconds.
Most women describe pushing contractions as different than labor contractions.
Some women have a short period where they will not have any contractions, or their contractions are very light and no urge to push. Push to comfort, and do not begin pushing before you are ready, this can lead to an unnecessary cesarean for failure to progress or the belief that the baby is too large. This stage begins with the birth of your baby and ends with the expulsion of the placenta. It is called the third stage of labor. You will most likely be holding or nursing your baby at this point, but there are a few things to remember here as well.