Prenatal Paternity Testing
Accredited. Safe. Simple. Certain.
Peace of mind, early on
Prenatal paternity testing allows you to determine the biological father of a baby during pregnancy using a simple, non-invasive blood test.
At NorthGene™, we provide accredited non-invasive prenatal paternity testing with a focus on accuracy, safety and discretion.
In this guide, we explain how the process works, how safe and accurate it is, and what to expect at each stage.
If you’re ready to proceed, you can view our non-invasive prenatal paternity test here.
What is prenatal paternity testing?
Prenatal paternity testing is a type of DNA test used to establish the biological father of an unborn child.
Unlike postnatal testing, which takes place after birth, prenatal testing is carried out during pregnancy (from as early as eight weeks). Today’s testing methods use a non-invasive approach, requiring a simple blood sample from the mother and a buccal (cheek) swab from both the mother and the potential father. This makes the process both 100% safe and highly accurate.
How does non-invasive prenatal paternity testing work?
Non-invasive prenatal paternity testing analyses the baby’s naturally circulating cell-free foetal DNA found in the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy. This DNA can be detected from early pregnancy, which allows testing to be carried out from as early as eight weeks without any risk to the baby.
We compare the baby’s cell-free foetal DNA to the DNA of the potential father to determine if there is a biological connection.
The process involves:
- A blood sample and a cheek swab collected from the mother
- A cheek swab collected from the potential father
- Laboratory analysis to compare DNA profiles
- A detailed report confirming the probability of paternity
The reason we collect a cheek swab from the mother is so that we can isolate the baby’s DNA in the blood sample, allowing for a higher accuracy rate of 99.999%.
At NorthGene™, we guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring sample collection and testing are carried out smoothly and securely.
We work with a UK-wide network of independent sample collectors, all of whom are fully trained and DBS-checked, ensuring samples are collected professionally, securely and with complete discretion.
Testing can be carried out from the comfort of your own home, without the need to visit a clinic or hospital. This allows for a more private and convenient experience during what can be a sensitive time.
Is prenatal paternity testing safe?
Safety is one of the biggest concerns for expectant families when considering prenatal paternity testing.
As it does not require any procedures that come into contact with the baby or its environment, non-invasive prenatal paternity testing is 100% safe. In our recent blog, we break down the key differences between non-invasive testing and traditional methods, such as amniocentesis or CVS, which do carry a small risk of complications.
Due to these risks, non-invasive testing is more often the preferred option for most families.
How accurate is prenatal paternity testing?
Non-invasive prenatal paternity tests are highly accurate, providing results with a probability of paternity of over 99.99% when the potential father is confirmed.
Accuracy depends on:
- the quality of the DNA samples,
- laboratory processes and
- adherence to strict testing standards.
Accuracy also depends on proper sample collection. NorthGene™ works with trained, DBS-checked sample collectors across the UK to ensure samples are handled correctly, and a full chain of custody is maintained from the outset.
At NorthGene™, testing is conducted at our UKAS ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, one of only two laboratories in the UK to hold this accreditation. We are also approved by the Ministry of Justice, ensuring results meet the highest levels of scientific and legal reliability.
These standards provide confidence that results are both accurate and handled with the appropriate level of quality control.
Legal considerations in prenatal paternity testing
Prenatal paternity testing can be used in situations where establishing paternity is important for legal or official purposes, including family law matters and immigration applications.
For results to be legally admissible, testing must follow strict chain of custody procedures, ensuring that all samples are collected, handled, and documented correctly.
At NorthGene™, we offer both peace of mind testing and legally admissible prenatal paternity testing, depending on your requirements.
Our laboratory is UKAS-accredited to ISO 17025 standards and approved by the Ministry of Justice, giving you confidence that our testing meets the highest scientific standards and is legally robust. We are also trusted by local authorities and family law firms across the UK, supporting cases where accurate and defensible results are essential.
Reliable results, when it matters most.
Ready to take a prenatal paternity test?
If you’re ready to proceed with testing, you can view our non-invasive prenatal paternity testing service, including pricing and turnaround times.
Our team is here to support you throughout the process, from arranging sample collection to delivering your results with care and discretion.
Prenatal Paternity Testing FAQs
About the test
Can you do a paternity test while pregnant?
Yes. NorthGeneTM offers non-invasive prenatal paternity testing, providing families with peace of mind before the baby is born. This allows you to focus on preparing for your new arrival and make informed decisions.
Is it safe for the baby?
Yes, it is completely safe. As the name suggests, the process is non-invasive, meaning it doesn’t require any procedures that intrude on the baby’s environment.
This is different to an invasive procedure such as amniocentesis, which collects amniotic fluid via a long needle. A non-invasive prenatal paternity test is the only 100% safe way to determine paternity before the baby is born.
How accurate is a prenatal DNA test?
If sample collection is completed correctly, the information on the consent form is accurate and there is sufficient foetal DNA, the test provides a result of 99.999% accuracy.
Can a prenatal DNA test be wrong?
Prenatal DNA testing is extremely reliable, and incorrect results are very rare, particularly when samples are collected and handled correctly.
At NorthGene™, we are able to deliver results with greater than 99.999% accuracy. However, as with any laboratory test, there is a small possibility of error, most commonly due to issues such as low foetal DNA levels or problems with sample collection.
How much does a prenatal paternity test cost in the UK?
Our prices start at just £665. We believe this is the lowest price you will find anywhere for a non-invasive prenatal paternity test with supervised sample collection.
We test your samples in our UK-based, state-of-the-art laboratories, specifically designed and build to deliver efficient and accurate DNA testing services to you.
Can I do the test if I’m expecting twins?
Unfortunately, NorthGeneTM do not provide prenatal paternity tests in cases with twins. In non-identical twins, the presence of multiple foetal DNAs in the maternal blood can complicate the analysis.
However, it may be possible for identical twin pregnancies. If you would like to discuss this test further, give our team a call on 0191 233 1414, and they will do their best to support you.
The testing process and samples
How early can you get a prenatal DNA test?
The test can be done as early as 8 weeks into pregnancy.
How does the test work?
Once a sample has been collected from the mother and the potential father, they are analysed in our own UK based laboratory.
The analysis compares the cell-free foetal DNA (cfDNA) in the mother’s blood with the DNA of the potential father.
Where can I get a non-invasive prenatal paternity test?
It’s up to you.
NorthGeneTM offers an at-home sample collection service, whereby a qualified nurse or medical practitioner will visit the home address provided to collect the samples and help you fill in the accompanying documentation. Please be advised that this service is only available in England, Scotland and Wales. Outside of this area, we can arrange for the kits to be sent to a GP or medical centre for your collection.
Alternatively, we can take your sample at one of our walk in centres, if that is more convenient for you.
If you prefer, you can arrange your own sample collection, however, samples must be collected in a recognised clinical setting. This ensures that they are taken correctly and confirm the identity of the participants. A recognised clinical setting can include a community health centre, GP, hospital or private clinic, although you will need to check the availability of these services near you.
In either case a suitably qualified person will oversee the collection of a blood sample from the mother and a cheek sample from the potential father.
How long does a prenatal paternity test take?
Once you have placed your order, one of our team will be in touch with you to arrange collection at your earliest convenience. The collection of the sample takes about 10 minutes and they will then be returned to NorthGeneTM for analysis.
Can I order on behalf of someone else?
Yes, you can, but we will need signed consent from every participant taking the test. If you are using our online ordering form, you will be asked to give the mother’s name and email address in Section 1 and the cardholder’s name and address at checkout.
You should also be aware that irrespective of who orders or pays for the test, the result will only be sent to the email addresses specified.
