The decision to take a peace of mind DNA paternity test is deeply personal and can carry significant emotional implications. It’s not something to take lightly, so understanding how the process works is an important first step. At NorthGene™, we aim to make that process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Our discreet, at-home testing kits allow you to carry out the test in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
What do I need for a paternity test?
An at home paternity test is quick and simple to do. The process requires:
- A buccal (cheek) swab from the potential father
- A buccal swab from the child
- Completed consent form
All of these are provided in your testing kit, which is delivered in discreet packaging. You’ll also receive a tamper-proof, pre-paid return envelope to securely send your samples back to our laboratory.
How do you take a paternity test?
Taking the test is straightforward. Simply rotate the buccal swab on the inside of your cheek for 20–30 seconds, then repeat with the second swab provided. Once completed, place the swabs into the labelled envelope, ensuring each sample is correctly identified with the participant’s name and relationship.
This process should be carried out for each person involved in the test. When all samples have been collected, seal them in the pre-paid return envelope and post them at your nearest post box or post office.
For additional guidance, you can watch our step-by-step video or read our full instructions here.
How long does it take?
Orders placed before 3pm are despatched the same working day. Orders placed after this time are dispatched the next working day – kits are sent via First Class Royal Mail or the choice of Special Delivery. Once received, the sampling process takes just 5–10 minutes to complete.
After your samples arrive at our UK laboratory, they are processed on the same day. The data is then analysed and reported by our specialist team. Results are issued via email within 1–2 working days.
Please note: our laboratory operates Monday to Friday, 9am–5:30pm, excluding bank holidays.
How do paternity tests work?
Paternity testing works by analysing specific regions of DNA known as genetic markers. These markers vary in length and repetition and are known as short tandem repeats (STRs).
Each person inherits two copies of every marker – one from their mother and one from their father. During testing, we compare the child’s DNA markers with those of the potential father. A biological father must share one matching marker with the child at each location tested.
Where possible, including the mother’s sample helps improve the chance of getting a conclusive result. We can obtain a conclusive result without her DNA, but including her increases the chances of a definitive result from 99.9% to >99.99%. This also provides additional reassurances that the samples have come from exactly who they should come from.
To confirm paternity, the results must show a match across the tested markers, with a probability of paternity of 99.99% or higher. To exclude the potential father as the biological father, results will show a probability threshold of 0.01% or less.
You can learn more about understanding your results here.
Take the next step with confidence
The process of DNA paternity testing can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At NorthGene™, our experienced and supportive team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you have questions about the testing process, your results or simply need advice, we’re here to help.
If you’d like to learn more about DNA paternity testing, click here – or start your journey to clarity today.
