Our Most Often Asked Questions about Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Testing

 

How soon into my pregnancy can I have this test performed?

Starting in the 14th week of pregnancy.

Is this test more accurate than an Amnio/CVS Prenatal test?

The Amnio/CVS prenatal test is equally accurate, but carry a higher risk to the child and require an OB-GYN to peform the testing.

Can this test be performed for Twins or Multiple Fetuses?

No, this test has been validated only for a single fetus only.

How accurate is this test?

This is the most accurate non-invasive prenatal test available. The test is 98-99% accurate in determining whether or not the alleged father is indeed the biological father by utilizing the very latest state-of- the-art testing technology when looking at the baby’s DNA in the mother’s blood.

How is this test “noninvasive”?

Unlike an amniocentesis or CVS, this test does not require the insertion of a needle into the mother’s abdomen or the insertion of a thin tube through a woman’s vagina and cervix.

Where is the mother’s blood collected?

During the consultation, your Case Manager will discuss options and if you wish, arrange for the collection of the mother’s blood at one of our collection sites located nationwide.

Who collects the alleged father(s) samples?

The mother can collect samples from the alleged father(s) or we can send the collection kit to the alleged father(s) so that they may submit their samples.

What kinds of samples can be submitted for the alleged father(s)?

A buccal swab is the first choice of any DNA sample submission. If this is not possible then hair,or forensic samples may be submitted for the alleged father(s).

How are the samples from the alleged father(s) collected?

Included with this test are directions for collecting each type of sample from the alleged father(s) (swab, hair, or forensic).

When are the samples from the alleged father(s) samples submitted?

Samples from the alleged father(s) can either be sent with the mother’s blood sample, or sent separately at a later time.

How long will it take to get the results?

After we receive the mother’s blood sample and the samples from the alleged father(s), results will be available in approximately 7-9 business days.

What possible test results can I expect?

Paternity Inclusion: The alleged father is not excluded as the biological father of the fetus. The probability of 99.9% that the alleged father contributed the genetic markers required of the biological father is 99.9%when compared with random individuals.

Paternity Exclusion: The alleged father is excluded as the biological father of the fetus. The alleged father lacks the genetic markers that must be contributed to the fetus by the biological father.

Insufficient fetal DNA for conclusive analysis: An insufficient amount of fetal DNA was obtained; therefore determining the paternity of the fetus is inconclusive. The amount of fetal DNA in maternal blood varies greatly during pregnancy but generally increases with advancing gestational age. Re-collection of only the mother’s blood would be required in order for the testing process to be repeated.

Indeterminate paternity results: No conclusion regarding paternity determined based on the genetic testing performed. The statistical value obtained for the tested alleged father is inconclusive and thus he can neither be included nor excluded as the biological father of the fetus. This can occur due to various reasons including, but not limited to, close genetic similarity between the alleged father and true biological father. DNA specimens from all possible alleged father’s is required if they are related; due to genetic similarities among relatives.

How much is this test?

Our price is lower than most lab direct tests. Many prenatal non-invasive tests cost between $1,600-$1,800. Bio-Gene’s standard test pricing includes collection costs for the mother and up to three alleged fathers, overnight shipping fees, lab processing, and results. We also include a standard paternity test to validate the results once the child is born in our pricing. If you chose to arrange you own collection (we will provide you several suggestions for labs in your area if you like) or use your physician or lab, we offer a significant discount.