Paternity Test Results: Explained with Examples

Understanding Home Paternity Test Results: A Step-by-Step Guide

Home paternity testing has become a popular, reliable, and convenient way to confirm biological relationships. With advancements in DNA technology, families can now obtain clear answers to life-changing questions from the comfort of their homes. At Validity Genetics, we specialize in providing accurate, confidential results to help you gain clarity and peace of mind.

If you’ve taken a home paternity test or are considering one, understanding the results is crucial. This guide will walk you through what paternity test results look like, how they are interpreted, and what they mean for you and your family.

How Does a Home Paternity Test Work?

A home paternity test analyzes DNA samples from the child, the alleged father, and sometimes the mother. These samples are collected using a painless cheek swab and are then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The lab compares specific DNA markers (short tandem repeats, or STRs) to determine whether the child and the alleged father share a biological relationship.

Reading Home Paternity Test Results

Your paternity test results will include two main components:

  1. Statement of Results: This will either include or exclude the tested individual from being the father of the child.

    1. A positive result will read: The alleged father cannot be excluded.

    2. A negative result will read: The alleged father is excluded.

  2. Combined Parentage Index (CPI): This is a numerical value representing the likelihood that the tested man is the biological father compared to a random man.

  3. Probability of Paternity: Expressed as a percentage, this indicates how likely it is that the tested man is the biological father.

Example Results: Positive Paternity

Example Positive Paternity Test Result

In cases where the alleged father is the biological parent, the CPI value is typically very high, often exceeding 100,000, and the probability of paternity will be listed as 99.99% or higher. This is considered conclusive evidence of paternity.

Example Results: Negative Paternity

Example Negative Paternity Test Result

If the alleged father is not biologically related to the child, the CPI value will be 0, and the probability of paternity will be listed as 0%. This means there is no genetic match between the child and the alleged father.

Common Questions About Paternity Test Results

  1. How Accurate Are the Results?
    Paternity tests from reputable laboratories, like those at Validity Genetics, are over 99.99% accurate.

  2. Do I Need the Mother’s DNA?
    While mother’s DNA is not required, including her sample can increase the test’s accuracy by providing additional data for comparison.

  3. What Do I Do If Results Are Inconclusive?
    In rare cases where results are inconclusive, additional participants or advanced testing may be needed. Contact Validity Genetics for further guidance.

Why Choose Validity Genetics for Home Paternity Testing?

At Validity Genetics, we prioritize accuracy, confidentiality, and customer support. Our tests use advanced technology to ensure reliable results, and our easy-to-read reports make understanding your results straightforward.

  • Fast Turnaround: Get results quickly, often within a few business days after the lab receives your samples.

  • Accurate Results: Our state-of-the-art technology ensures unmatched precision and reliability.

  • Supportive Team: Our experts are here to help you at every step, from sample collection to interpreting your results.

Take the First Step

Whether you’re seeking clarity for personal reasons or legal matters, home paternity testing offers the answers you need. With Validity Genetics, you can trust that your results are accurate, private, and delivered with care.

Ready to learn more? Visit our example paternity test results page to see how results are presented or contact us to get started today.