I am 17 weeks 2 days with our first baby! Had a checkup this past Tuesday and heard a strong and fast heartbeat. Have not had any problems so far not have I had any spotting. I have dealt with constipation my whole pregnancy. I get off and on sharp pains that I know are round ligament pains but since 17 weeks hit I've had some minor cramp like pains all around my abdominal area. How do you know the difference between gas pains and contractions?