Procedures To start a prenatal paternity test, simply fill out our online order form or call 1-888-362-2592. One of our caring, knowledgeable case managers will evaluate your situation based on the information you provide and verify the test options that are best for you. Collection Appointments
We encourage the mother to ask her OB-GYN if he/she is willing to perform the prenatal sampling (CVS/amniocentesis). We can also coordinate referrals and appointments with OB-GYNs who are experienced in the procedure for an additional fee. In order to make the referral and start the DNA testing process, we only require a small partial payment—the lowest amount charged in the industry. This partial payment is credited towards your final balance.
Prenatal Sample Collection
Prenatal samples are collected by the OB-GYN using either Chorionic Villi Sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.
In CVS, the physician first determines the location of the placenta using ultrasound. Depending on the location, he/she will then use a catheter through the vagina to gently take a placental sample, or use a long needle through the abdomen to collect the sample.
In amniocentesis, the physician also uses ultrasound to locate a pocket of amniotic fluid that is at a safe distance from the developing baby. He/she then uses a long needle to draw amniotic fluid.
Both procedures are performed under continuous ultrasound monitoring.
Sample Collection from the Parents
DNA samples from parents are collected using buccal swabs. The sample collector rubs a cotton-like swab against the inside of the patient’s cheek to collect loose cells. See the home collection procedure for more details.
Patient Identification for Chain of Custody
If a legal test is required, we will arrange for sample collection through a trained professional who uses a Chain of Custody documentation process in order to make test results legally admissible (accepted by courts and other government agencies). The tested parties will be asked to do the following when they come to their appointments:
- Present government-issued identification for the adults
- Present one of the following for minors: birth certificate, social security card, crib card, or shot record
- Be photographed and/or fingerprinted
- Complete a Client Identification and Consent Form (a minor’s consent form should be signed by the legal guardian)
The OB-GYN also signs a Chain of Custody form verifying the protocols followed in collecting the prenatal sample from the mother. DNA Test in Our Laboratory
In our laboratory, we extract DNA from the samples and use the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) together with at least 16 primers to create a “map” of each person’s DNA, called a DNA profile. The 16 primers we use include the 13 CODIS markers that the FBI uses in their investigations to identify individuals.
The tested parties’ DNA profiles are then compared to determine the alleged father’s probability of paternity. The results will show either a 100% exclusion (the alleged father is not the biological father) or at least a 99.99% inclusion (the alleged father is considered the biological father). Results
You may choose to receive your DNA test report via fax, first class mail, or courier. Home test results are emailed once they are released by the laboratory (5 working days after samples are received.).
For legal test results, we send a hard copy of the results via first class mail 5 working days after we receive your samples in the lab. To request a copy of your results via fax or courier, simply call your case manager at 1-888-362-2592. | 
