How Accurate IS A Paternity Test?

Paternity testing accuracy is 99.9% and higher for the probability of paternity. Samples are tested and analyzed by our partner Association for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies(AABB) accredited lab which ensures all samples submitted to the lab meets the highest industry standards.

To ensure the highest accuracy when performing a paternity test, consider these key factors:

1. Choose a DNA testing company that offers AABB-accredited services like Secure DNA Tests, as this accreditation ensures both legal and non-legal tests meet the highest industry standards.
2. Ensure your DNA specimen samples are tested and analyzed on minimum of 18 genetic markers.
3. Avoid companies that use only 10-12 genetic markers, as fewer markers may increase the risk of false results.”

What is a DNA paternity test?

A paternity test is a relationship test that determines a biological relationship between an alleged father and child.

This scientific method uses cheek swab samples to collect DNA specimens that are used to compare the father’s genetic profile with the child’s inherited contribution from its father to establish paternity. It is recommended the mother of the child participates in the DNA testing process for increased accuracy.

DNA Testing Options:

The Difference Between Legal and Non-legal Paternity Tests.

Non legal paternity test: is an informational DNA test that can be performed in the comfort of your home or in-office. This option cannot be used for any legal reason.

Benefits of Non-legal Home Paternity Test:

The pros to performing an At Home DNA test are;

• It can be done in the comfort of your home
• Self-collected
• Cost-effective
• Easy to follow instructions
• Pre-paid return FedEx envelope

Legal Paternity Test: DNA tests performed for legal purposes require a chain of custody be established, sample must be collected by independent DNA sample collector and all DNA samples will be tested and processed by our partner AABB accredited laboratory.

What Factors Affect the Accuracy of Home paternity DNA Tests?

Quality of the Samples:
The quality of samples received by the lab determines if a genetic profile can be produced. If a DNA sample is compromised, you will be notified to submit a secondary sample, or the lab will issue a DNA conclusion report based on their findings. Below are factors that may affect the lab’s ability to produce a DNA profile:

1. Cheek Swab Collection: Not following the instructions in your Home Paternity Test kit can result in an incomplete profile.
2. Saliva Collection: Collecting too much saliva and not allowing the cheek swab to dry may create conditions for bacteria that could compromise the samples.
3. Toothbrush Samples: Submitting toothbrush samples that have not been consistently used might result in insufficient DNA for a profile. Failing to air-dry the toothbrush could lead to bacteria buildup affecting the sample.
4. Hair Follicle Samples: Submitting hair samples without the follicle (root) or placing them in a moist environment may affect results.

These are common sample types submitted to the lab. Following the instructions in your test kit is crucial. If you have concerns about sample collection, please contact our office at 888-970-4211 before purchasing a Home Paternity Test.

Inaccurate Results (Dishonest Sample Submission):

Inaccurate results may occur when DNA samples are collected from different locations, and one party (alleged father) submits incorrect samples. To enhance analysis effectiveness, collect samples from all parties involved and follow the DNA sample collection instructions in your kit. This ensures that the laboratory produces a conclusive DNA analysis.

Keep in mind that dishonest sample submission is more likely to occur when parties are in different locations with home kits. An in-office sample collection should be considered when communication between the parties involved is certainty.

What is common method type of DNA sample collection used for paternity DNA testing?

Sample collection methods such cheek swabs collection are the most effective collection method. Blood samples have the same accuracy as cheek swabs but are more invasive and painful. The use of forensic samples is possible but the ability to extract a complete profile will decrease due to sample storage and handling.

What Should Be Done If I Suspect My DNA Samples Are Contaminated?

Recollect the samples if you suspect contamination before purchasing a Home DNA Kit. If you cannot secure another sample, decide whether it is worth the financial commitment to proceed with the testing process. Contact our office at 888-970-4211 for insight from one of our DNA consultants.

What is common reason people perform paternity tests?

The primary reason people perform a paternity test is to establish the paternity of a child. Below are some of the benefits of establishing paternity.

• Adding the child’s name to the birth certificate
• Social Security Benefits
• Health Insurance
• Inheritance
• Child Custody
• Child Support
• Immigration Visa and Consular Report of a Birth Abroad (CRBA)

How long will it take to receive paternity test results?

The turnaround time for results is 2 to 3 business days from the date the lab receives all specimen samples.

Same-day results are available for an additional cost. This option applies to non-legal paternity DNA tests. Call 888-970-4211 to inquire about this testing option.

When is the earliest DNA paternity test performed?

The earliest DNA paternity test can be performed as early as the 7th week of pregnancy using non-invasive prenatal paternity testing (NIPP). This modern testing method works by analyzing cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) that appears in the mother’s bloodstream beginning just weeks into pregnancy.

The test only requires a simple blood sample from the mother and a DNA sample (typically a cheek swab) from the alleged father.

This non-invasive approach is much safer than older methods like amniocentesis (performed at 15-20 weeks) or CVS testing (performed at 10-13 weeks), which carried risks to both mother and baby due to their invasive nature.

For those who prefer to wait until after birth, Secure DNA Tests can perform DNA sample collection just days after the child is born for post-pregnancy paternity testing. This postnatal option allows parents to establish paternity quickly and safely once the baby arrives, using simple cheek swabs from both the child and alleged father.

Whether performed prenatally or postnatally, DNA paternity testing provides highly accurate results with 99.9% accuracy or higher probability of paternity.

Will My Results Be Kept Private?

Yes. All samples submitted to the laboratory remain private. Results are released only to the individuals involved in your DNA test, and no information is sold to unauthorized third parties.private. Results are released only to the participant involved in your DNA test, and no information is sold to unauthorized third parties.