PREGNANCY DNA TESTING
Can You Do a DNA Test While Pregnant?
Yes. DNA tests can be performed while the mother is pregnant. We offer invasive prenatal paternity testing that requires assistance from an OBGYN.
How Does the Process Work?
There are two options for invasive DNA testing:
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS):
- This test requires a doctor to use a needle to extract a tissue sample from the uterine walls through the cervix or abdomen.
- It detects chromosome abnormalities or genetic disorders.
- This test can be performed between the 10th and 13th week of pregnancy.
- Amniocentesis:
- This test involves extracting samples from the amniotic fluid in the uterus.
- It also detects genetic disorders and chromosomal abnormalities.
Both methods are accurate but carry a small risk of miscarriage or other side effects. Consult your OBGYN for more information. If you’re looking for a less invasive option, you may have heard of the Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) test. However, please be aware that our facility does not offer this specific DNA testing option.
Note: The alleged father’s DNA sample will be collected using cheek swabs at the time of his appointment. Call 888-970-4211 to schedule an appointment for invasive prenatal paternity tests
Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test
What is a NIPP Test?
A Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) test determines biological paternity before birth without any risk to the pregnancy. This method requires:
- A blood sample from the mother containing fetal DNA
- A cheek swab sample from the alleged father
NIPP testing does not require referrals from an obstetrician-gynecologist, making it more accessible.
Note: Our facility does not offer this specific DNA testing option.
Common Reasons to perform a prenatal paternity test:
The common reason prenatal paternity test is considered are:
- Health Consideration: Determine the paternity of an alleged father dealing with a serious illness
- Peace of MInd: A couple’s disagreement regarding paternity of a child (Unfaithfulness)
- Social Factors: Uncertainty regarding who the biological father is when more than one man was involved with mother during the conception date.
These are the common reasons we have experienced of the years performing this type test. Regardless of the reason to perform a paternity test it does carry legal ramifications that include child support, child custody and inheritance.
How Long Does a Prenatal Paternity DNA Test Take?
The turnaround time is 3-5 business days upon receipt of samples at the laboratory.
How Much Is a DNA Test While Pregnant?
Invasive prenatal paternity testing costs start at $850. Sample collection fees are not included in this price. The cost covers DNA analysis and shipping.
DNA sample collection cost for the mother provided by her doctor and collection cost for the father range from $25 to $100.00 per person depending on his geographic location.
Where Can I Get a DNA Test While Pregnant?
Call 888-204-0583 for details on performing an invasive DNA test with the mother’s OBGYN. DNA samples for the alleged father may be collected at over 2,500 specimen collection sites nationwide.
Locations:
Can Prenatal Paternity Tests Be Used for Legal Purposes?
Yes. An invasive prenatal paternity test result can be used legally if your OBGYN agrees to collect a sample during amniocentesis or CVS. Establishing a legal chain of custody allows these results to be used for legal purposes.
Note: All DNA samples are tested and analyzed by our partner AABB-accredited DNA laboratory.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prenatal Paternity Tests
How Accurate Are Invasive Prenatal Paternity Tests?
Testing by our partner laboratory meets high industry standards. When conducted properly, legal paternity testing typically yields a probability of biological relationship of 99.99% or higher.
Are Pregnancy DNA Testing Results Private?
All genetic samples and results remain confidential. We do not sell information to third parties. Specimens are kept for three months before destruction. Results are released only to participants involved in the test. An unrelated third party receives results only with a court order, and clients will be notified before results are released.
Does Planned Parenthood Offer Prenatal Paternity Testing?
Planned Parenthood does not offer paternity testing. Pregnancy testing is different and determines if a mother is pregnant after a missed period.