Maternity DNA testing determines whether the woman tested is the biological mother of the child tested. It works like a DNA paternity test, except this analysis compares a child’s DNA profile with their mother’s.

DNA maternity testing provides scientific evidence of whether a woman can be a child's biological mother.

Maternity is determined by comparing the child's DNA with the DNA profile of the alleged mother.

There are several common reasons women choose to test maternity, including proof of maternity for immigration, to prove a relationship between an adoptee and a biological mother, and more.

A maternity test can be used where a child has been adopted and as an adult has sought to find their birth mother – once re-united testing may be undertaken so that their true biological relationship can be confirmed.
Maternity testing is also sometimes used to confirm the biological links to a child conceived by in vitro fertilisation.
Resolving controversy that sometimes occurs in the hospital due to the suspicion of giving the wrong child. Thereby helping families get a lifetime of peace of mind after returning home from the hospital
Proving an adoptee’s relationship to a possible biological mother
Proving a maternal relationship for immigration

How do I register for maternity testing?

You can complete your DNA maternity testing registration using our online registration service or if you'd prefer by calling NOVAGEN's Customer Services team on 0987.666.081. NOVAGEN will assist with arranging a convenient time for an appointment for the DNA samples to be taken.

How long does a maternity DNA test take?

Once all samples have been received at the lab, results for a maternity test are posted to a secure online account in just 2 business days. Next-day and same-day results are also available for an additional fee.

When should I use a legal maternity test?

Legal tests should be performed when results are needed for any legal matter such as child support or child custody. The test can also be used to support placing a parent’s name on a birth certificate.

What type of sample is collected in a legal maternity test?

The most common sample type is a buccal swab. This sample is collected using a cotton swab that is gently rubbed on the inside of your cheek. Blood samples are also acceptable.

AT-HOME TESTS (NON-LEGAL)

At-home DNA tests are commonly called non-legal tests. DNA samples for at-home tests are collected by individuals in the privacy of their own home.

They provide the same information as a legal DNA test, but they are not intended for use in a court of law. If there is a possibility that the results might be needed for legal purposes, a legal test should be performed.

How accurate is a DNA maternity test?

In the Accredited Laboratory, our scientists test the DNA samples with 24 ‘markers’ to analyse the relationship of the people being tested. This produces extremely accurate results which will either exclude the woman from maternity with 100% certainty, or will confirm a close biological relationship.

Maternity is usually indicated with a very high level of confidence in excess of 99.99%.

If it is possible, including a sample from the child’s biological father is recommended as this will ensure that we can report the most conclusive statistical result.

Results are completely confidential, and your private genetic information is never shared with or sold to outside parties.