I have heard that labor contractions can really hurt. What do they feel like?

A strong contraction feels like an uncomfortable cramp working around the center of your body. You will feel involuntary tightening which seem to travel from your stomach region to your back and back again to the front. The top of your abdomen will harden as the contractions intensify. The squeezing sensations can be also felt in the groin area and thigh areas. You can somewhat compare the cramping pain you feel to that of a severe leg cramp to get a general idea. Its onset means you are entering the active phase of labor. With contractions being more regular and frequent the pain will deepen. Alongside you will feel pain and discomfort in the lower region as your cervix starts to dilate. Note that pain and discomfort level differs from woman to woman.