Which sign of pregnancy is indicated by a positive test result?

A positive test result for pregnancy is classified as a positive sign. This means that the test has detected the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy. The existence of hCG in the body is strong evidence that the individual is pregnant, making this a definitive indicator.

Other signs of pregnancy are categorized differently. Presumptive signs are those that the person may experience but are not definitive evidence of pregnancy, such as missed periods or breast tenderness. Probable signs can suggest pregnancy but might also be caused by other factors, such as an enlarged uterus observed during a clinical examination. The term "first sign" is not used in the medical community to classify pregnancy signs. Thus, the positive sign is the most reliable evidence indicating pregnancy, as it directly confirms the hormonal changes associated with being pregnant.