Maternity Test

Maternity Testing

Maternity testing is a DNA test that scientifically determines whether a woman is the biological mother of a child. While the identity of a child's mother is usually known, this test provides definitive answers for a range of legal, medical, and personal reasons.

Why is a Maternity Test Performed?

Maternity testing can provide clarity and peace of mind in various situations, including:

• Adoption: To confirm the biological relationship between an adult and their birth mother.
• Surrogacy and IVF: To verify that the correct embryo was implanted or that the intended mother is the biological mother of the child.
• Immigration: To prove a biological relationship for visa or citizenship applications.
• Hospital Mix-ups: To confirm a child's identity in rare cases of a suspected newborn mix-up.
• Legal Cases: To provide court-admissible evidence for matters such as child custody or inheritance.

Types of Maternity Tests

We offer two main types of maternity tests, both of which provide highly accurate results (typically >99.9% for a match):

• Legal (Chain of Custody) Test: This test is required if the results will be used for any legal purpose. The sample collection process is strictly controlled and documented by an independent third party to ensure the identity of all individuals and prevent tampering. This establishes a "chain of custody," making the results legally admissible in court.
• Personal (Peace of Mind) Test: This test is for personal knowledge only. The samples can be collected discreetly at home, making it a convenient option for those who do not require court-admissible results. The accuracy of the lab analysis is the same as a legal test, but without the formal chain of custody, the results cannot be used in a legal setting.

How It Works

1. Sample Collection: The process involves a simple and painless cheek swab (buccal swab) from both the alleged mother and the child. The swab collects cells from the inside of the cheek, which contain DNA.
2. Laboratory Analysis: The collected DNA samples are sent to a certified laboratory. Scientists analyze specific genetic markers in the DNA profiles of both the mother and child. Because a child inherits half of their DNA from their mother and half from their father, a biological match can be conclusively determined.
3. Results: The results will state a probability of maternity. A result of 99.9% or higher indicates a biological relationship, while a result of 0% definitively excludes the tested woman as the biological mother.

Confidentiality and Accuracy

We adhere to the highest standards of confidentiality to protect your personal information and test results. Our laboratories are accredited and use rigorous testing procedures to ensure that all results are accurate and reliable.