Questions and Answers About DNA Testing For Paternity

Often with an unexpected pregnancy, it becomes important to prove who the father of the baby is. Whether you’re a mom trying to get child support or whether you’re a dad trying to get parental rights, this can be a very stressful situation.

We’re going to look at the most commonly asked questions about DNA testing and proving paternity. Hopefully, having some answers for your questions will ease your mind, reduce your stress and help you develop a plan.

How does a DNA test work?

Every child inherits half their DNA from their mother and half from their father. A DNA test looks for a 50% match between a child and potential parent to prove or disprove the blood relationship.

How accurate is a DNA test?

DNA can determine paternity with 99.99% accuracy.

When can I do a DNA test?

It is possible to do a DNA test before a child is born. The OB/GYN can take a blood sample from the mother and from the possible father any time after the 8th week of pregnancy. This test analyzes the baby’s DNA (which is found in the mother’s blood) and the father’s DNA and looks for the 50% match.

The baby’s DNA can also be tested through an amniocentesis or through Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS). Both amniocentesis and CVS include risks of miscarriage and other side effects, so most medical providers do not perform these tests only to prove paternity. The American Pregnancy Association recommends using the non-invasive testing of the mother’s blood or waiting until after the baby’s birth to do a DNA test.

You can also test the DNA after the baby is born. This is done by collecting DNA from the umbilical cord at the time of delivery. Of course, you can also do a cheek-swab DNA test after the baby is born. This involves swabbing the inside of a baby’s cheek and the potential father’s cheek with a special cotton swab.

How long does it take to get results?

This depends on which lab you use. Some labs can get results in 1-5 business days. Other labs can take 1-2 weeks.

How much does it cost?

Again, this depends on which lab you use. Some DNA labs offer less expensive tests called Curiosity Tests or Peace of Mind tests. These results are not accepted in court so they cannot legally prove paternity. Kits for Curiosity Tests can be ordered online or purchased at a drugstore for as little as $10 – $99. Court-admissible DNA tests can cost anywhere from $400 – $2000, depending on how the test is done and where you get it done.

What’s different about the DNA test allowed as evidence in court?

In order for DNA results to be used in court, you must have documentation and proof that the child, mother, and potential father have all been properly identified (with legal ID), that the DNA has been properly collected and handled and that the person testing is a third-party with no interest in the outcome.

If you think you’ll need the DNA results in court, you probably need to speak with a lawyer before choosing which DNA test to do. A lawyer can give guidance and advice about which lab to use.

If you’re considering a DNA paternity test, we hope this gives you some information you might have been lacking and helps you figure out your next right step. As always, if you just need someone to talk with, our team is here to support you.

Sources: http://scienceline.org/2012/01/how-does-a-paternity-test-work/

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My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

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What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.