Can You Do a Paternity Test While Pregnant?

Yes, you can do a paternity test while pregnant. A non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP) test can be performed as early as the 7th week of pregnancy using a blood sample from the mother and a cheek swab from the potential father. Invasive tests like chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis are also available but carry small risks, including miscarriage. This article explains the types of prenatal paternity tests, their accuracy, risks, costs, and legal considerations. For the next step, read our overview of Can You Get Your Period While Pregnant.

Types of Prenatal Paternity Tests

There are three main methods for prenatal paternity testing: non-invasive prenatal paternity (NIPP), chorionic villus sampling (CVS), and amniocentesis. Each has different timing, procedures, and risk profiles.

Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP)

The NIPP test is the safest option. It analyzes fetal DNA found in the mother's bloodstream. A blood sample is taken from the mother after the 7th week of pregnancy, and a cheek swab is collected from the potential father. The lab compares the fetal DNA with the father's DNA. NIPP is 99.9% accurate and poses no risk to the fetus. According to Cleveland Clinic, the test can be done as early as the eighth week of pregnancy, while American Pregnancy Association states it can be done after 7 weeks. Some sources, like AlphaBiolabs, also mention 7 weeks. The test is not suitable for women expecting twins or multiples, as noted by DNA Center. For the next step, read our overview of Can You Have Runny Eggs While Pregnant? Safety Guide.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

CVS is an invasive test typically performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. A doctor takes a small sample of chorionic villi from the placenta, either through the cervix or abdomen. The sample contains fetal DNA. CVS carries a small risk of miscarriage and infection. It is usually done for medical reasons, but can be used for paternity testing if needed.

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is another invasive test, usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. A thin needle is inserted through the abdomen to collect amniotic fluid, which contains fetal cells. Like CVS, it carries a small risk of miscarriage or premature labor. Both CVS and amniocentesis require a physician to collect the sample, as stated by Labcorp.

How Accurate Are Prenatal Paternity Tests?

Prenatal paternity tests are highly accurate. NIPP tests are 99.9% accurate, according to Cleveland Clinic and American Pregnancy Association. Invasive tests like CVS and amniocentesis are also highly accurate, but they are not typically used solely for paternity because of the associated risks. Results usually show a probability of paternity of 0% or 99.9%. A 0% result means the tested man is not the biological father, while 99.9% indicates he is very likely the father. For the next step, read our overview of What Does One Line on a Pregnancy Test Mean.

Risks and Safety Considerations

NIPP is completely safe for both mother and fetus because it only requires a blood draw from the mother. The risks are minimal and similar to any blood test, such as pain, bruising, or fainting. In contrast, CVS and amniocentesis are invasive and carry a small risk of miscarriage (about 1 in 300 to 1 in 500 for amniocentesis, and slightly higher for CVS) and infection. These procedures should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider. The CHC Florida article notes that these procedures carry a small risk, including potential complications, and should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Our breakdown of Safe Pain Relief After Tooth Extraction While Pregnant covers the related details.

Can My OBGYN Perform a Prenatal Paternity Test?

Not all OBGYNs offer prenatal paternity testing. Some may provide NIPP testing or coordinate with a lab, while others may refer you to a specialist. For invasive tests like CVS and amniocentesis, a qualified medical practitioner, often a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, performs the procedure. According to CHC Florida, while some OBGYNs may possess the necessary expertise, not all offer this service. It is best to ask your OBGYN directly. For NIPP, you can often order a kit online or through a lab, and the blood draw can be done at a clinic or sometimes at home with a mobile phlebotomist.

Cost and Legal Considerations

The cost of prenatal paternity testing varies. NIPP tests typically range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the provider and whether legal documentation is needed. Invasive tests like CVS and amniocentesis are more expensive because they involve medical procedures and may be covered by insurance if done for medical reasons, but not for paternity alone. Legal paternity tests require a chain-of-custody process, where samples are collected by a neutral third party and documented. At-home tests are not admissible in court. According to Labcorp, a doctor's order is not generally required for prenatal paternity testing, except in New York State, where a prescription or court order is needed. Additionally, testing without consent is illegal in many jurisdictions, so all parties should agree to the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the earliest I can get a paternity test while pregnant?

The earliest is 7 weeks of pregnancy with a non-invasive prenatal paternity test (NIPP). Some sources say 8 weeks, but 7 weeks is commonly cited.

Can I do a paternity test at home while pregnant?

Yes, you can order an at-home NIPP kit. The kit includes a blood collection device for the mother and cheek swabs for the potential father. You send the samples to a lab. However, at-home tests are not admissible in court.

Is a prenatal paternity test covered by insurance?

Usually not. Insurance typically does not cover paternity testing unless it is medically necessary. You should check with your insurance provider.

Can a paternity test be done with just the mother's blood?

Yes, NIPP uses the mother's blood, which contains fetal DNA. The potential father's DNA is also needed for comparison, usually via a cheek swab.

What if I am pregnant with twins?

NIPP is not recommended for multiple pregnancies because it is difficult to distinguish the DNA of each fetus. Invasive tests may be possible but carry higher risks. Consult a specialist.