To detect early pregnancy

To determine adequacy of hormonal production in high-risk pregnancies (for example, habitual abortion)

To aid in the diagnosis of trophoblastic tumors, such as hydatidiform mole and choriocarcinoma, and tumors that ectopically secrete human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

To monitor treatment for induction of ovulation and conception

Explain to the patient that this test determines if she’s pregnant.