It is relatively easy to perform a home DNA test using simple, easy-to-use home DNA kits. Many types of kits are available to the public via online sites, or you can purchase them at the local pharmacies and drugstores. Be very careful when purchasing the kits and the testing laboratory that the samples are sent out to for analysis. Accredited labs that conduct DNA analysis are approved by the American Association of Blood Banks. DNA home kits are usually performed to determine the paternity of a child, although genetic testing is becoming more widely available.
Step 1
Swipe the inner lining of the cheeks with the long cotton swab provided in the kit and place carefully in the container. Repeat this procedure with the mother and the father's cheeks if doing a paternity test. Avoid contaminating the samples. Most kits usually provide one or two containers and several long cotton swabs.
Step 2
Mail the samples to the testing laboratory as instructed in the information package. Every kit contains a self-addressed pre-stamped envelope plus a set of explicit instructions on giving accurate personal information. There are instructions on packaging the DNA sample to avoid contamination, including correct labeling of the samples. Be very careful that these steps are followed precisely to ensure proper analysis and results.
Step 3
Do not drink coffee, tea or alcohol for a few hours before the sampling occurs since residues from these beverages and drinks can contaminate the samples and give inaccurate testing results. Do not smoke prior to obtaining samples. Rinse the mouth with water before you take the swab.
Step 4
Throw away any contaminated buccal swabs and start again if there was a chance that the sample was compromised. Test results usually take a few days to a week before being mailed back to the sender or the parties who had registered for the DNA testing kit. The average cost for each kit including the laboratory test is normally around $100.
Things You'll Need
- Home DNA kit
- Cotton swab
- Labels
- Envelope
