We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Read Paternity Test Results?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 3,051
Share

Reading paternity test results involves comparing the values at a number of locations along the chromosome, known as loci, tested by the laboratory. Labs provide values for several loci to allow people to see if the subject of a test shares genetic material with another person on all of those loci. Laboratories usually provide information at the top of the paternity test results about whether the two DNA samples were a match, along with offering a detailed breakdown of the testing.

It is important to note that no lab will say with 100% certainty that the provider of one sample was the parent of the the provider of another sample. DNA labs operate on statistical probability; the test will state either that it “includes” or “excludes” the purported father. If the father is included, it means it is strongly statistically probable that he is indeed the child's father. If he is excluded, the test results suggest he cannot be the father.

At each locus, a child will inherit one gene from the mother and one from the father. On paternity test results, the loci tested are named, and people will see a pair of numbers corresponding to each locus for the child and the father, like 1,2 and 4,2. To be a match, one number at each locus must match, showing a genetic relationship between the two samples. In the example above, a 2 is present in both. If some loci match and others do not, the two samples may be related, but they are not parent and child, as children inherit half their DNA from their fathers.

The number of loci tested on a paternity test can vary. The goal with paternity test results is to obtain a statistically relevant sample. A match at a single locus is not as relevant as matches at seven loci, for example. It is possible in rare cases for a child to not match at every locus tested, as sometimes genetic mutations occur or there are problems with the samples that affect the results. DNA labs have very strict procedures for taking and handling samples to avoid issues like contamination.

When reading paternity test results, people can look at the quick answer provided at the top of the test, and they may also choose to examine the results at each locus. Some people find it helpful to highlight or circle the numerical matches to make them easier to spot.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-read-paternity-test-results.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.