This stage takes place before the pushing stage of labor and the contractions can be quite painful. (pregnancy-info.net)
There's even some evidence to suggest that having good control of your pelvic floor muscles may help during the pushing stage of labor. (babycenter.com)
Squatting, hands and knees, standing, semi-reclining, on a birthing stool or an exercise ball — all of these positions can shorten the pushing stage of labor by letting gravity assist baby's descent. (mommyedition.com)