Mother holding a child and looking out over a lake
Mother holding a child and looking out over a lake

Accredited maternity DNA testing you can trust

Maternity is rarely questioned, but when it is, the need for a clear and certain answer is no less important than in any other relationship test. Our testing provides exactly that, handled with care and delivered with confidence.
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The science behind the result

A maternity test works on the same genetic principle as paternity testing. Every person inherits half of their DNA from their biological mother. By comparing specific genetic markers across the profiles of the child and the potential mother, a biological relationship can be confirmed or excluded with a high degree of statistical certainty.

Up to 45 genetic markers are analysed as standard, producing a result robust enough to hold up in any personal or legal context.

DNA cheek swab sample collection

How maternity dna testing works

The process is quick and completely painless. A cheek swab is rubbed gently on the inside of the cheek to collect a DNA sample from each person taking part. Swabs are securely packaged and sent for analysis.

Both the potential mother and the child are required to provide a sample. Including a sample from the potential father, where available, can increase the statistical strength of the result, though it is not a requirement.

Collector

When maternity testing matters

There are circumstances where confirming a biological maternal relationship becomes genuinely important. Maternity testing is used in situations involving adoption, surrogacy, or questions arising around birth records. It can support applications related to inheritance, nationality, or family reunification. In legal settings, it provides a clear and admissible record of biological relationship.

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Peace of mind and legal testing

Our peace of mind testing is designed for those who need a private answer without the formality of a legal process. Where results are required for official purposes, our legally instructed testing follows a strict chain of custody throughout. Results are accepted by Family Courts, the Ministry of Justice, UK Visas and Immigration Service, the Home Office, HM Passport Office, Border Force and Immigration Enforcement.

How DNA
testing works

1. Sample Collection

A DNA sample is collected using a simple, non‑invasive method such as a cheek (buccal) swab or saliva sample. This captures cells containing the individual’s unique genetic material.

2. DNA Extraction & Profiling

In the lab, DNA is extracted from the collected cells and processed to create a genetic profile. Specific regions of the DNA are examined that are known to vary between individuals, making the profile highly accurate and unique to the donor.

3. Laboratory Analysis & Matching

The DNA profile is analysed in our UK laboratory and compared against reference samples or tested for specific genetic markers, depending on the purpose of the test. Results can confirm identity, biological relationships, or genetic traits with a high degree of scientific certainty.
DNA testing cheek swabs
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Speak to our team

Not sure which direction to take? Our team will help you figure out what’s right for your circumstances.

DNA FAQs

Samples are collected by swabbing the inside of the donor’s cheek, using a sterile applicator.

While less common than paternity testing, maternity tests are sometimes needed for immigration applications, adoption cases, or situations where a biological mother-child relationship needs to be confirmed.

The process mirrors paternity testing — DNA from the child and the alleged mother are compared across multiple genetic markers to confirm or exclude a biological relationship.

Yes. The same high level of accuracy applies — confirmed matches come with a probability of 99.99% or above, and exclusions are 100% definitive.