Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP)
The most accurate and non-invasive way to establish paternity before the baby is born is through a non-invasive prenatal paternity test. This state-of-the-art process combines the latest technology and proprietary methods to preserve and analyze the baby's DNA, which is naturally found in the mother's bloodstream. The test only requires a simple blood collection from the mother and alleged father and can be done any time after the 8th week of pregnancy. Non-invasive prenatal DNA paternity testing is usually chosen by individuals and families who cannot or prefer not to wait for the child to be born, or who would rather avoid invasive and potentially risky procedures like Amniocentesis or Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS).
How Non-Invasive Testing Works
- DNA is collected from the mother with a simple blood draw, and DNA is collected from the possible father using a cheek swab
- Both samples are then sent to the lab for analysis
- The test analyzes free-floating fetal DNA from the mother’s bloodstream and compares it to the mother’s own DNA profile
- Once the fetus’s profile is determined, that profile is then compared to the possible father’s and paternity can be determined
- Results for the prenatal paternity test are generally returned in about 2-3 weeks once testing has begun.
IMPORTANT: It is not possible to perform a prenatal paternity test if you are carrying twins. This is because the mother's bloodstream contains free-floating DNA from both fetuses, and current technology does not allow for the separate isolation of each fetus's profile in the lab.
What risk does DNA testing pose to the mother and the developing baby?
Historically, invasive prenatal testing methods like amniocentesis or CVS have carried some risks. These tests are generally discouraged when used solely for determining paternity due to the increased likelihood of miscarriage. On the other hand, the non-invasive procedure known as non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP) testing poses minimal risk to both the mother and the baby. The only risk involved is the same as that of a standard blood collection.
What To Look For In a Lab:
- An accuracy guarantee: Make sure the lab stands behind its results
- Full accreditations along with an excellent reputation in the industry: Your prenatal paternity test results are too important to leave to chance—be sure the lab maintains extensive, current accreditations with important independent lab-oversight programs such as the AABB
- Tests that are consistently updated: With improvements in DNA technology, and updates to existing tests, ensure the
- Utilizes the latest and best technologies to give you the most accurate results
- Caring and professional support before, during, and after your test: Getting a DNA test isn’t hard, but it can be an emotional process. Having the support of a highly-trained and sympathetic customer care team who can answer all your questions knowledgeably and help you feel comfortable makes a big difference
- Beware of too-good-to-be-true pricing: This is one of the most important tests you may ever take, and you really do get what you pay for. So don’t let price be the only determining factor in making your decision
Prenatal DNA paternity testing is admissible in legal proceedings where paternity of the child is in question.
Our accredited partner laboratories are leaders in paternity and relationship testing. We understand how important getting answers quickly, affordably, and accurately is for our customers.
