North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

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What is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy that can be validated by blood tests?

Positive urine test
Breast tenderness
Elevated hCG levels
Missed menstrual period

The correct answer is: Elevated hCG levels

Elevated hCG levels are one of the earliest signs of pregnancy that can be validated by blood tests. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Blood tests can detect hCG levels very soon after implantation, often within about one to two weeks after conception, making it an early marker for pregnancy. This is significant because while urine tests can also detect hCG, they may not become positive until a little later, usually around the time of a missed menstrual period. Other signs of pregnancy, such as breast tenderness or a missed menstrual period, can occur but are not as definitive or immediate as elevated hCG levels. Breast tenderness is a symptom that can occur for various reasons, including hormonal changes not related to pregnancy. A missed menstrual period is a common indicator of pregnancy but typically correlates with elevated hCG levels and is not as early a sign that can be confirmed through testing. Therefore, blood tests that measure hCG provide the most accurate and early validation of a pregnancy.