Understanding your biological connection to a child can be a deeply personal and emotional journey. DNA maternity testing can be a reliable option to find answers, but we recognize it’s not always an easy decision. Our team is here to guide you through the process with empathy, understanding, and respect for your unique situation.
In this post, we delve into the process of maternity testing. Whether you’re considering legal testing or a peace-of-mind home kit, we’ll guide you through the process, explain the nuances, and ensure you make informed decisions.
What is Maternity Testing?
A DNA maternity test is genetic test that determines if an alleged biological mother is biologically related to a child.
Common Uses
- Adoption
- Inheritance
- Immigration
Maternity DNA Testing Types
Legal Maternity Test
Maternity testing is a genetic test that helps to provide proof of a biological relationship between a mother and her child. The results for this testing option can be for any legal purpose.
Please note: All legal tests require a chain of custody to be established in order to be deemed legally admissible documents.
Legal DNA tests can only be performed by an AABB accredited lab in the United States to be recognized by government institutions.
It should be noted, that DNA maternity testing should not be confused with prenatal pregnancy testing, or any related medical maternal services provided by a healthcare professional. Our DNA Testing services we offer are to determine if a biological relationship exists.
Information on Maternity DNA Testing Requirements:
All DNA samples will be processed and analyzed by our partner AABB accredited laboratory.
Related Legal Testing Questions:
How much does a Legal Maternity DNA Test cost?
Contact IDTO today at 877-680-5800 for quotes based on you specific circumstance
What method will be used to collect DNA samples?
All DNA samples are collected by cheek swabs. Each swab will be placed inside of the mouth and brushed against the left and right cheeks for minimum of 30 seconds.
Blood sample collections are a viable DNA sample collection option that has a the same accuracy as cheek swabs samples.
How to get a maternity test?
Contact IDTO today at 877-680-5800 to schedule an appointment. We have over 2 2000 facilities in our network nationwide.
How long will it take to receive my DNA results?
The average turnaround time for you to receive results is 2 to 3 business days from the date the lab receives a DNA samples.
What documents are required for a legal maternity test?
Requirements vary by state and circumstance, but generally include valid photo IDs for all participants, consent forms from all parties involved, and sometimes a court order or doctor’s referral depending on your location.
We recommend contacting our office at 877-680-5800 to inquire about legal genetic testing requirements for your state.
What kind of legal proceedings require a DNA maternity test?
Legal Maternity DNA tests are commonly used for purposes of evidence submission of U.S. immigrant visa applications, inheritance, and child adoption cases.
At-Home DNA Test
An At-Home Maternity test is a peace of mind home test kit that can be performed at home. This testing option is for peace of mind purposes only between the mother and child and cannot be used in court or for any legal reason.
How The Process Works:
1. The process is simple. Click the order button on the page below to purchase your DNA kit online, Or contact our office to order your test kit online today or by contact us by phone at 877-680-5800.
2. Once you order your kit you will receive an email confirmation shortly after ordering of tracking details of your shipment to your home.
3. Upon receipt of your kit. Follow your instructions, collect your samples, and ship the samples back to the lab using the prepaid shipping envelope enclosed with your kit.
4. When your result is completed. A copy of your result will be mailed to your home and a copy will be emailed to you the same day your DNA result is completed.
New York Residents
Please note: Home DNA testing option for New York State residents re not available. According to NYSDOH guidelines residents of NY must acquire one of the following documents to perform DNA test to be compliant with the state’s guidelines.
1. A court order from a judge
2. A prescription referral from a NYS licensed doctor.
3. A letter from a NYS licensed Family Law Attorney.
If you do not have one of the three documents listed above. IDTO will not proceed with scheduling your DNA testing appointments.
Related Home Test Kit Questions:
How much does a Maternity Test Kit at home cost?
The cost of a this peace of mind DNA testing option starts at $199.99.
DNA Results Turnaround Time
The turnaround for your DNA results to be completed is 2 to 3 business days from the date the laboratory receives all genetic samples.
Is a home DNA test as accurate as a legal test?
Yes, both legal and home DNA tests use the same highly accurate genetic analysis technology. However, home tests are not admissible in court due to the inability to ensure chain of custody and proper sample collection.
Can I use a home DNA test for immigration purposes?
Unfortunately, No. Immigration authorities require court-ordered legal DNA tests conducted by accredited laboratories to ensure authenticity and adherence to specific protocols.
What happens to my DNA sample after the home test?
We understand the importance of privacy. Your DNA sample is securely stored in our partner laboratory for a limited period (typically 3 months) and then anonymized and destroyed according to strict ethical guidelines.
Paternity vs Maternity Testing Differences
The difference between a maternity and paternity test is as follows:
1. Maternity Testing determines if a biological relationship exists between mother and child.
2. Paternity Testing determines if a biological relationship between an alleged father and child.
Please note: Although DNA testing is considered the effective medium to determine biological relationship between a parent and child. There are times, although seldom a DNA analysis will produce an inconclusive results.
Inconclusive results may occur due to the following.
Genetic mutations
Insufficient DNA or a contaminated DNA samples. If this occurs, a re-collection would be required.
Technical issues: Lab errors or issues with the testing procedures themselves, although rare, can occur and contribute to inconclusive results.
Please note: All legal tests require a chain of custody to be established in order to be deemed a legally admissible document. Legal DNA tests can only be performed by an AABB accredited lab in the United States to recognized by a government institutions.
