Sample types accepted for paternity testing
A paternity test often clarifies important questions — for example in family matters or legal proceedings. Many people, however, are not sure exactly what kind of sample is needed for such a test, or what the court or other official authority will accept. In this article we explain, simply and clearly, what samples a paternity test can be made from, and how you can order them.
How does a paternity test work?
During a paternity test, we analyze the DNA — the genetic material — which is characteristic of and unique to every individual. DNA is generally extracted from cells, which can be found in various sample types — for example in oral mucosa or other bodily materials. The test will be accurate if a suitable and clean sample is used, so it is important to choose the right type of sample.
Standard samples: the simplest solution
The most common sampling method is a buccal swab — a sample taken from the inner lining of the cheek. This is collected with a special swab stick, which is painless and easy to use. This sample is acceptable for any official purpose — for example for court proceedings or for changing a child's name — making it the primary recommended method.
Special samples: when standard sampling is not possible
There are cases when a buccal swab cannot be taken. In such situations we can use other types of samples, which we process as so-called special samples. These can be derived from a wide range of materials, for example from blood or from everyday personal items. Their laboratory processing takes somewhat longer, but they are often just as effective as a buccal swab.
What special samples are suitable?
- Bodily fluids:
- Blood: for example a drop of blood on filter paper or on a blood glucose test strip, on a bandage, or on a tissue.
- Earwax: cotton swab.
- Nasal secretion: paper or cloth handkerchief.
- Body parts and tissues:
- Nail clippings (at least 5–6 pieces).
- Biopsy tissues or other tissue fragments, including paraffin-embedded samples.
- Everyday personal items:
- Razor: especially multi-blade types, which contain skin and hair fragments.
- Toothbrush: dry, unwashed.
- Chewing gum: dried hard, sugar-free type.
- Drinking vessels, glasses, or straws: clean and intact.
- Cutlery: for example a fork or spoon used for salty food and not washed afterwards.
What samples are not suitable?
Not every sample can be used to extract DNA. For example:
- Hair or body hair.
- Baby teeth.
- Pieces of clothing or toys (including pacifiers).
If you are not sure whether your sample is suitable, please contact our specialists for advice.
How to order a special-sample test
You can easily order a special-sample test in our webshop:
- Choose a basic paternity test.
- Add the Special DNA sample add-on service to your cart. If you are unsure about anything, our customer service team will gladly assist you.
Processing time for special samples
The processing of special samples takes longer than that of a standard buccal swab:
- Preliminary processing: approximately 14 days.
- Full analysis: up to 3 weeks.
If sufficient DNA cannot be extracted from the special sample, we will notify you immediately and offer the option of submitting a new sample or canceling the test.
Contact us for advice and choose now from our full range of paternity tests!