AlphaBiolabs USA Blog
Sample collection for Prenatal Paternity Testing: what you need to know
For parents who have questions regarding their unborn child’s paternity, an AlphaBiolabs Non-invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) Test provides a 100% safe, accurate and reliable way of determining paternity before the baby is born.
But what samples are required for a NIPP test? And how are these samples collected?
In this blog, we look at what you need to know about sample collection for prenatal paternity testing.
Order a Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) Test OnlineHow prenatal paternity testing works
NIPP testing – like the test we offer at AlphaBiolabs – involves analyzing fetal DNA that is found naturally in the mother’s bloodstream from as early as 7 weeks into pregnancy.
This DNA is then compared with cheek swab DNA from the potential father, to identify matching DNA markers.
If the tested man is the biological father, the man and the unborn baby will share DNA at every tested marker. If the tested man is not the biological father, this will not be the case.
As a DNA laboratory with over 20 years’ experience helping families find answers to their questions, we understand that ordering a prenatal paternity test is a sensitive and important decision.
However, there are many benefits to prenatal paternity testing, depending on your reasons for wanting or needing a test:
- Getting clarity/peace of mind about a child’s paternity before the baby is born
- Helping foster father/child bonds before birth, where the tested man is confirmed as the biological father
- More complete family information, which can be crucial for prenatal care
- Peace of mind confirmation of paternity where a baby has been conceived via fertility treatments (e.g. IVF) or a surrogate
What samples are required for a NIPP test?
A major benefit of NIPPT is that the test is non-invasive, meaning that it is 100% safe for mom and baby.
An AlphaBiolabs Prenatal Paternity Test requires cheek swab DNA samples from the potential father, along with cheek swab DNA samples and a blood sample from mom.
While other DNA laboratories may require cells to be obtained from either the amniotic fluid or the placenta using a needle, AlphaBiolabs offers non-invasive testing only – so you can be confident that our test is 100% risk-free.
What are the options for sample collection
We provide two options for sample collection for your NIPP test.
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AlphaBiolabs sample collection
Have one of AlphaBiolabs’ professional Sample Collectors collect your samples at a time and location to suit you (+$99)
Simply order your test online and select this option at checkout. We’ll ship your test kit out to you immediately. Instructions for how to book your sample collection appointment will be included in your test kit.
Your AlphaBiolabs’ Sample Collector will ensure the safe return of your samples to our accredited laboratory, for analysis.
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Organize your own sample collection
Simply order your test online, and we’ll ship your test kit out to you immediately. You can collect your own cheek swab DNA samples (mom and potential father) at home quickly and easily, using the instructions included in your test kit.
For the blood sample collection, mom will need to arrange to have a blood sample taken via her OB-GYN, primary care physician, or other medical professional.
If you arrange your own sample collection, you will also be responsible for returning the samples to our laboratory.
- Secure, confidential results in just 5 business days
- Non-invasive test – 100% safe and risk-free for mom and baby
- ISO 17025, ILAC and BBB-accredited laboratory
- Multiple sample collection options available, to suit your needs
- Over ONE MILLION genetic tests performed since 2004
- Test kit sent to your preferred address in discreet, plain packaging
Please note: the mother and potential father’s samples do not need to be collected at the same location, but we strongly recommend that all samples be collected at approximately the same time.
This is to avoid any delays and the risk of the mother’s blood sample degrading.
What to look for when choosing a prenatal paternity test
With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which testing laboratory to choose.
Here are just a few reasons why you can trust AlphaBiolabs with your prenatal paternity test:
You can also find out the sex of your baby for FREE when you purchase a Prenatal Paternity Test. Simply add our Prenatal Gender Test to your cart when placing your order.
Order your test online now or contact our friendly, discreet Customer Services team on 727-325-2902 / info@alphabiolabsusa.com for more information.
Please note: our Prenatal Paternity Test is for peace of mind only, and the results cannot be used in legal proceedings or for other official purposes. If you require a DNA test for court, you will need a Legal DNA test.
