DNA and paternity testing: How are the DNA test samples taken?

DNA paternity testing - frequently asked questions

• What is DNA paternity testing?
• How does DNA testing work?
• How long will the test take?
• Are the results conclusive?
• Is the service confidential?
• From what age can a child be tested?
• What about Quality Control?
• Can other relationships be tested?
• Will my DNA sample be safe?

How are the DNA test samples taken?

You will need to make an appointment have your samples taken by a Doctor or a Nurse. At that appointment a mouth swab will be rubbed gently and painlessly on the inside of your mouth to collect a sample of cheek cells.

You will also need to complete a consent form at the surgery (please remember to take 2 passport style photographs of each person being tested to the appointment) and these and the sample will then sent to the paternity testing company by the surgery.

• What is DNA and why do we test it?

• What is DNA paternity testing?

• What does DNA paternity testing involve?

• Accreditation of testing laboratories

• Selecting a testing service - making an informed choice

• The Human Tissue Act

• Types of DNA test

• DNA test results and reports

• Assessing DNA reports

• How much does it cost?

• Advice and support groups

Get a quote for DNA testing/paternity test

If you would like a quote for DNA testing/a paternity test, or further information on DNA tests, from up to three providers of DNA paternity testing services in the UK

Complete the DNA testing enquiry form....