Can You Get a Paternity Test While Pregnant? How Prenatal DNA Testing Works

Establishing paternity before a baby is born is possible, thanks to modern advancements in DNA testing. If you need to confirm biological fatherhood during pregnancy, non-invasive prenatal paternity testing (NIPP) offers a safe and highly accurate solution. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, its accuracy, and why it’s a reliable choice.

What Is a Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test?

A non-invasive prenatal paternity test (NIPP) is a cutting-edge method that determines paternity while the baby is still in the womb. Unlike older procedures that required invasive methods like amniocentesis, NIPP is completely safe for both the mother and the baby. This safe paternity test during pregnancy provides highly accurate results without any medical risks.

How Does Prenatal Paternity Testing Work?

During pregnancy, small amounts of the baby’s DNA circulate in the mother’s bloodstream. A cell-free fetal DNA paternity test analyzes this fetal DNA and compares it to a DNA sample from the alleged father. The process is simple:

Blood Sample from the Mother – A standard blood draw is taken from the mother to collect cell-free fetal DNA.

Buccal Swab from the Alleged Father – A painless cheek swab is collected from the potential father.

DNA Analysis in an Accredited Lab – The fetal DNA is isolated and compared to the father’s genetic markers for a highly accurate result.

Is Prenatal Paternity Testing Safe?

Yes! Because NIPP only requires a blood sample from the mother and a cheek swab from the father, it poses no risk to the baby. Unlike invasive procedures like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which carry a small risk of miscarriage, non-invasive DNA testing for paternity is 100% safe.

How Accurate Is a Prenatal Paternity Test?

The accuracy of prenatal paternity tests is extremely high, typically providing 99.9% accuracy when confirming a biological relationship. As long as the sample collection process is done correctly, results are as reliable as standard post-birth DNA tests.

When Can You Take a Prenatal Paternity Test?

The test can be performed as early as 7 weeks into pregnancy, making it an ideal option for parents who need answers sooner rather than later. This early DNA paternity testing allows expectant parents to make informed decisions well before the baby arrives.

How Long Do Results Take?

Results are usually available within 5 to 7 business days after the lab receives the samples. Some providers offer fast prenatal DNA test results with expedited processing options.

Is a Prenatal Paternity Test Legally Admissible?

A legally admissible prenatal DNA test is possible if the test follows proper chain-of-custody procedures. If required for child support, custody, or other legal matters, ensure the test is performed by an accredited lab that provides court-admissible documentation.

How Much Does a Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test Cost?

The cost of non-invasive prenatal paternity tests can range from $1,000 to $2,000+, depending on the provider and lab fees. While it is more expensive than standard paternity tests, the added benefit of safety and early results makes it a valuable option.

Why Choose a Prenatal Paternity Test?

Provides early answers – No need to wait until birth to confirm paternity.

100% safe and non-invasive – No risk to the mother or baby.

Legally admissible results available – If required for legal matters, results can be used in court when proper chain-of-custody procedures are followed.

Reduces stress and uncertainty – Helps expectant parents prepare emotionally, financially, and legally.

Final Thoughts

If you need to establish paternity before birth, a non-invasive prenatal paternity test is the safest and most accurate option. Whether for personal peace of mind or legal purposes, WeCare Mobile DNA offers fast prenatal DNA test results with confidential and reliable testing solutions.

Ready to schedule your paternity test while pregnant? Contact WeCare Mobile DNA today for expert guidance and accurate results.