How accurate is a paternity test at home?

paternity test at home

Genetic testing has evolved significantly since it was once a complex process that could only be conducted by a doctor. The high-level technology of the laboratories is applied today in at home DNA test kits. The difference is that you now have the option to collect samples while wearing your pyjamas while watching your favourite TV show! This convenience does not imply lower accuracy; it is just a way to have convenient access to the same reliable technology.

As a medical practitioner with a history in genetic testing services, I have witnessed the remarkable evolution of technology in DNA testing. The results of home DNA tests are now like traditional lab results, provided that proper procedures are observed. Choice DNA has proved to be one of the pioneers in offering its reliable, accurate, and confidential DNA testing services.  From paternity testing to prenatal paternity Choice DNA covers a wide range of testing services to help you get answers. 

What is the accuracy of at-home paternity tests as compared to lab tests?

Lab tests and reliable paternity testing at home are equally accurate, as they are identical. They both apply the same technology of DNA analysis and study the same genetic markers. The results of the study titled “An Accuracy of Home DNA Test are usually at 99.9% when the man under test is the actual father. A simple matter of having a sample in a different location – yours on the kitchen table and in a clinical chair. Choice DNA works with all the samples in certified DNA labs with the same equipment and processes, no matter the place of collection. Under the correct technique, there is no difference in either accuracy between home and lab collection techniques.

What are the factors that may influence the accuracy of a home paternity test?

The largest factor that influences accuracy include:

  • The quality of the samples. It is important to have a clean sample collection, which requires one hour before swabbing, during which you should not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum. 
  • Switching up of samples or contact between the swab tips can lead to contamination. 
  • Sample age is also important – the best results are obtained when samples are sent promptly. 

It is very important to do things as they are told. The Choice DNA home paternity test kit is supplied with step-by-step instructions to avoid the above problems. When you adhere to the few basic guidelines, such as labelling samples properly and washing your hands, the accuracy of home DNA test remains at 99%. Most contamination problems can be identified and avoided through processing by our certified laboratories.

Do legal DNA tests and home tests utilise the same technology?

Home and legal tests run the DNA markers using the same laboratory equipment. It is not the difference between the science – it is the paperwork trail. Court tests demand records of collection, which are to be witnessed and documented specially. Home tests are concerned with individual knowledge and not with legal evidence. 

Choice DNA applies the same certified labs and technology of the advanced genetic analysis to both types of testing. The platform of the actual DNA examination process, the quality standards as well as the accuracy levels remain the same. The science and technology behind it are the same; whether you are seeking the answers to personal peace of mind or legal action, the only difference is within the process of collection.

Does sample contamination decrease the home paternity test accuracy?

Contamination of samples may occur, and hence the results can be easily tampered. 

The trick is to adhere to the simple collection principles:

  • always clean your hands, 
  • never touch swab tips, 
  • keep samples apart, 
  • and label them properly. 

The simplicity of precautions at home relies on the claim that paternity testing can be conducted with precision. When it is collected using the appropriate methods, contamination is almost impossible and will not influence the end accuracy.

How can you ensure reliable results at home?

It is important to take the right steps to ensure that the results are always correct! 

  • To begin with, make sure to go through the instructions thoroughly beforehand.
  • Second, do not eat, drink, or smoke 1 hour before sampling. 
  • Third, wash your hands thoroughly. 
  • Fourth, rub the swab in the inside of the cheek for the suggested length of time.
  • Fifth, allow samples to dry and put them in envelopes. 
  • Sixth, name each item with its corresponding name and date. 
  • Lastly, send back mail samples by snail mail with prepaid shipping. 

The Choice DNA home paternity test kit has step-by-step illustrations that are easy to follow. We have a customer service team that is available to answer questions and ensure the sample is collected perfectly.

How fast is a home paternity test?

Home paternity test results are extremely rapid – on average 3-5 business days after the lab receives your samples! This time is to be covered by full DNA analysis, quality controls and verification of results. The effective laboratory procedures found in Choice DNA mean that the company has efficient turnaround without compromising accuracy. Even faster results can be expressed when necessary. The speed is due to the streamlined processing and highly automated equipment that can process several samples at the same time. 

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Conclusion

Home paternity testing precision is not merely satisfactory, but exceptionally high. With the present DNA technology, it is now possible to attain quality laboratory results from the comfort and convenience of your home. The trick lies in selecting a reputable laboratory, such as Choice DNA, that offers a combination of the latest science with a user-friendly and easy collection process.

Do not forget that proper sample collection is the beginning of accuracy, and professional laboratory analysis is the end. With the easy methods provided by any Choice DNA kit, you can expect the same reliable results that have made genetic testing a trusted tool for millions of families worldwide.

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