Paternity test without a child knowing

In this article, we discuss how you can get a paternity test without a child knowing.

What is paternity testing?

A paternity test is a type of DNA relationship test that is used to verify a biological relationship between a child and their potential father.

To perform the test, DNA samples are collected from the child and the potential father using cheek (buccal) swabs: a simple, pain-free method of sample collection that means the test can be performed at any time on a person of any age, including new-born babies and grown-up children/adults.

These samples can then be analyzed and compared in the laboratory to identify matching DNA markers (loci) in the DNA samples.

When testing the biological father of the child, both the man and the child will share enough identical sections of DNA to confirm a biological relationship.

If the tested man is not the biological father, this will not be the case.

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How can I get a paternity test without a child knowing?

Paternity testing is an extremely sensitive subject.

This means that many parents who have questions regarding their child’s paternity are reluctant to discuss this with their children.

For a paternity test, DNA samples are usually collected using cheek (buccal) swabs. This simple method of sample collection requires cheek swabs to be rubbed on the inside of the mouth to collect cheek cell DNA.

While this quick and painless method of sample collection is easy to perform on children, some parents may not feel comfortable doing this, especially on older children when asking for a cheek swab sample could lead to difficult conversations.

In these circumstances, a more discreet method of DNA sample collection known as a viability DNA test or viability study might be preferred.

We offer two alternative methods of sample collection for individuals looking to perform a paternity test without a child knowing.

  • Toothbrush DNA Test – for $195 (plus the cost of your chosen DNA relationship test), our geneticists will attempt to extract a DNA profile from a used toothbrush instead of a cheek swab sample. If a DNA profile can be retrieved from the used toothbrush, the paternity test can then be performed by analyzing and comparing the DNA profile from the toothbrush with the DNA profile of the potential father, obtained via cheek swabs
  • Nail Clipping DNA Test – for $195 (plus the cost of your chosen DNA relationship test), our geneticists will attempt to extract a DNA profile from fingernail clippings and/or toenail clippings instead of a cheek swab sample. If a DNA profile can be retrieved from the nail clippings, the paternity test can then be performed by analyzing and comparing the DNA profile from the nail clippings with the DNA profile of the potential father, obtained via cheek swabs

A major advantage of toothbrush DNA testing and nail clipping DNA testing is that samples can be collected in a subtle manner.

For a paternity test, this means that a child would not need to be made aware that a test is being undertaken. All you would need to do is send in their regular, used toothbrush, or a sample of their fingernail clippings and/or toenail clippings.

Please note however that whichever DNA test you choose, the appropriate consent must still be provided before the test can go ahead.

Any person over the age of 16 can provide their own consent for their DNA to be used in testing.

If testing a child under the age of 16, consent must be provided by a parent or guardian with parental responsibility for that child.

Learn more about discreet paternity testing

Where can I buy a paternity test?

It’s easy to order your peace of mind paternity test online now for just $129, with results in 3 business days.

Simply place your order online and we will ship your test kit out to you in discreet, plain packaging, for full confidentiality.

The cost of the test includes your test kit and all lab fees. Your home test kit will contain everything you need to collect your samples and return them to our accredited laboratory for analysis by our in-house geneticists.

If you need a discreet paternity test, take a look at our Toothbrush DNA test or Nail Clipping DNA Test.

Please note however that whichever DNA test you choose, the appropriate consent must still be provided before the test can go ahead.

Our home DNA testing kits are for peace of mind only. This means that the results are purely for your information and cannot be used in court/during legal proceedings.

DNA Paternity Test

Order your paternity test online now for $129.

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Last reviewed: 02/06/2023
Casey Randall AlphaBiolabs

Casey Randall

Head of Genetics at AlphaBiolabs

Casey joined AlphaBiolabs in 2012 and heads up both the Genetics and Health testing teams. An expert in DNA analysis and a member of the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG), Casey holds an MS degree in DNA Profiling and a BS degree in Forensic Science.

Casey is responsible for maintaining the highest quality testing standards, as well as looking for ways to further enhance the service that AlphaBiolabs provides and exploring new and innovative techniques in DNA analysis.

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