Which test is commonly used as a probable indicator of pregnancy?

A positive pregnancy test is commonly regarded as a probable indicator of pregnancy because it detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the urine or blood. This hormone is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining and is typically present during early pregnancy.

In the context of prenatal care, a positive result on a pregnancy test is often the first formal indication that a woman may be pregnant, prompting further evaluation and confirmation through additional tests or ultrasounds. This makes the positive pregnancy test a critical tool in determining pregnancy status and subsequent healthcare planning.

While ultrasound can confirm a pregnancy visually by showing gestational structures, it is not done as an initial test or indicator. A Pap smear is primarily for screening cervical cancer and does not provide information about pregnancy. A cholesterol test assesses lipid levels and is unrelated to pregnancy assessment.