Are Online Paternity Tests Accurate?
Paternity testing is a crucial step in answering important questions about relationships and family dynamics. Understandably, accuracy is a top concern for customers considering home paternity tests, as the results hold significant implications for individuals and families. In this article, we'll delve into the accuracy of home paternity tests, address common inquiries, and shed light on the science behind the results.
The Assurance of Accuracy with Accredited Labs
When opting for a home paternity test through an accredited laboratory, you can rest assured that the results will be accurate for the samples provided. Accredited labs adhere to strict quality control measures to ensure accurate and reliable outcomes. The accuracy of home paternity tests lies in the hands of both the participants who provide the samples and the meticulous procedures followed by the laboratory.
Comparing Home and Legal Paternity Tests
Whether you choose a home paternity test or a legal one, the accuracy remains consistent. Once the samples reach the laboratory, the testing process, technology, analysis, and safeguards are identical for both types of tests. This means that home paternity tests can yield results just as accurate as legal tests that are admissible in court.
Understanding Probability in Paternity Testing
A common query revolves around the probability of paternity and why it might not reach 100%. DNA testing calculates the probability of paternity based on statistical analysis. Human beings share a substantial portion of their DNA due to the similarity of their genomes. As such, paternity results are presented as a percentage of probability rather than an absolute confirmation.
In paternity testing, the probability of paternity percentage is generally 99.99% or higher for conclusive results. This percentage is derived from the precision of genetic testing methods, sample handling, and reporting procedures. Complex computer systems analyze the genetic data to generate the Combined Relationship Index and Probability of Paternity. Conversely, if the test determines that the alleged father is not the biological father, a 0% probability of paternity is 100% accurate for a chain-of-custody test.
The Mathematical Foundation of Probability
The probability of paternity is calculated using Bayes' Theorem, a mathematical principle that considers the prior probability. In paternity tests, the prior probability that the alleged father is the biological father is assumed to be 50%. This equal weightage is used as a standard in the DNA testing industry due to the absence of prior information regarding the case. The probability statement in a paternity test is derived from the Combined Parentage Index (CPI), which measures the likelihood of shared alleles occurring between the child and the tested man.
The CPI, combined with Bayes' Theorem, results in the Probability of Paternity formula: CPI / (CPI + 1). Due to the inherent nature of this formula, the probability of paternity can never reach 100%, as the denominator is always greater than the numerator.
Demystifying the Complexity
While the scientific and mathematical aspects of paternity testing can be intricate, the key takeaway is clear. Home paternity tests are accurate and provide the same reliable results as legal tests. The assurance of accuracy lies in the rigorous testing processes conducted by accredited labs, ensuring that the samples are handled meticulously and the calculations are carried out with precision.
In conclusion, if you're considering a home paternity test, you can trust that the results will be accurate and reliable. The science behind the testing methods ensures that your questions about paternity will be answered with clarity and certainty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Paternity Tests
What do I need to do to get a home paternity test?
To get a home paternity test, you can order it online now. NOTE: Per the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), New York residents can only do a legal paternity test. See testing guidelines for New York State here.
Can I do a home paternity test if I need results for child support or custody?
No; you should not do a home paternity test if you need results for child support, custody, or any other legal reason. Courts do not accept results unless they are from a legal DNA test that maintains a strict chain-of-custody process. If you need results for court, contact one of our specialists for a no-obligation, free consultation at 302.527.1789.
How soon can you DNA test a baby after birth?
You can DNA test a baby after birth as soon as the baby has been cleaned up by hospital staff. Because a cheek swab is used, it’s important that the baby’s mouth be free from meconium, amniotic fluid, breast milk, or formula when doing the DNA collection.
What types of samples does GameDay DNA use for an at-home paternity test?
DNA is collected by test participants at home, using cheek swabs (also called buccal swabs). Cheek swabbing is a quick and painless way to collect cheek cells containing DNA. This is not a saliva test. To prevent swabs from getting “too wet,” avoid gum areas and do not spit on the swabs. If they seem very wet, wave swabs in the full instructions for air for 60 seconds prior to placing them in the paper sample envelopes.
See full instructions for at-home DNA collection here.
Is there a difference in accuracy between cheek swabs and blood?
No, there is no difference in accuracy between cheek swabs and blood samples. DNA is the same in every cell of a person’s body, regardless of whether it is a blood cell or a cheek cell. It has been demonstrated that DNA from a blood or cheek swab sample from the same person produces identical paternity test results.
Can a home paternity test be performed without the mother?
Yes; a home paternity test can be performed without the mother. If the mom cannot or does not want to be tested, we can still perform a home paternity test. A “motherless” test could require more extensive analysis to produce conclusive results, but the results are just as accurate as those of a standard paternity test with the mother included. Keep in mind that consent from a legal parent or guardian must be obtained for testing a minor child. If the mother participates in a home paternity test, she is guaranteed to receive a copy of the test results.
Are at-home paternity tests accurate?
Home paternity test results are accurate for the samples provided to the laboratory. For at-home testing, the lab relies on test participants to make sure the samples being analyzed by the lab belong to the correct people. If you do not trust other participants’ integrity with submitting correct samples, you can either make sure you’re all together in the same room during swabbing or you should choose a legal paternity test (with witnessed DNA collection) instead.
The DDC Dual Process™ system adds an extra layer of surety to the accuracy of your test results. Each post-natal paternity test is performed twice by independent teams, so you can be confident in your results.
What happens if the tested parties live in different cities or states?
The easiest thing to do if tested parties live in different cities or states is to call us during business hours at 302.527.1789 to set up the test, and we’ll take care of sending DNA-collection kits to the different locations.
Can a paternity test be performed if the alleged father is missing or deceased?
A paternity test cannot be performed if the alleged father is missing or if he is deceased and no blood card is available from the funeral home. However, other testing options are available in these types of situations. GameDay DNA specializes in finding alternative family members to test to determine the true biological father.
Other tests include:
We’re ready to help. Call us at 302.527.1789
I live in New York State. Can I do an at-home paternity test?
Per the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), New York residents can only do a legal paternity test with a prescription from their doctor or attorney. See testing guidelines for New York State here.
How long does it take to get DNA paternity test results for a home test?
Results are posted 2 business days after samples are received at the lab. 1-day or same-day results once samples arrive at the lab are available for an additional fee.
How will I receive my results?
For security reasons, we will only send a copy of your results via email to tested parties.
Can I use my home paternity test results to obtain child support?
No; home paternity test results cannot be used to obtain child support. Because a strict chain-of-custody process with supervised DNA collection hasn’t been followed for a home paternity test, results are not accepted for any legal reason and are not recognized in courts. If you anticipate needing results for legal reasons, order a legal paternity test.
How much does an at-home paternity test cost?
Our home DNA paternity test (for personal knowledge and peace of mind only) costs $179 to $225.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept the following forms of payment:
Visa
MasterCard
American Express
Discover
Pre-paid credit cards
Do you protect my privacy?
We take our customers’ privacy very seriously: both for your case and your DNA data.
We will not release any information about your case to anyone without your authorization.
We will always follow any special instructions you give us for communicating with you or other parties involved in your test.
We never release test results over the phone.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter! If you have questions about paternity tests or other DNA testing services, please contact our Client Support Center at 302-529-1789, Mon-Sunday from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM Eastern Time. Our friendly, expert representatives are ready and happy to help. Get answers anytime by visiting our Help Center.
