JUNE 19, 2026

How Much Does Prenatal Paternity DNA Testing Cost?

Pregnancy brings with it many joys, but also many unknowns. If the question of paternity is something you want answers to, you’re probably considering prenatal paternity testing. This journey raises its own questions: how early on in the pregnancy can you take a DNA test? Is it invasive? And how much does prenatal paternity testing cost? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the cost of a prenatal paternity DNA test, and what to expect from the process.

Table of Contents

• When Can You Do A DNA Test While Pregnant?
• A Quick Overview of How NIPP Testing Works
• How Much Is a DNA Test While Pregnant?
• FAQs

When Can You Do A DNA Test While Pregnant?

The answer to this question depends on the type of test. There are three main types of DNA paternity tests:

• Noninvasive prenatal paternity (NIPP) testing: Low-risk, noninvasive testing that analyzes fetal DNA in the mother’s blood.
• Amniocentesis: Invasive prenatal testing that involves sampling amniotic fluid around the fetus for testing. Amniocentesis risks are rare, but they can include miscarriage or premature labor.
• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS): A small sample of chorionic villi cells are extracted from the placenta through the cervix or abdomen. Like amniocentesis, risks are rare but can happen.

Amniocentesis and CVS typically happen during your second or third trimester. NIPP testing, on the other hand, can happen as early as seven weeks.

Prenatal vs. Postnatal DNA Paternity Testing

Paternity can be determined during pregnancy and after the baby is born. Both prenatal and postnatal paternity tests are highly accurate. Choosing one over the other often comes down to factors like timing, privacy, and comfort.

Prenatal testing offers comfort in certainty. When paternity is confirmed during pregnancy, you can get the early reassurance or resolution you need before the baby is born. Confirming paternity is more than just identifying the father of your child; paternity can also shed light on things like medical history or provide critical legal evidence. NIPP tests can be done at home, making them a comfortable, discreet option.

Postnatal testing, on the other hand, often involves less emotional stress, because the anticipatory feelings that come with pregnancy and uncertainty are already overwhelming. Taking DNA samples from your baby is simple and routine, and can often be done in the hospital after birth.

The method and timing of testing you choose will come down to your unique concerns and needs during and after pregnancy. For expectant parents who seek answers that will inform decisions they make throughout their pregnancy journey, prenatal testing is often the best option.

A Quick Overview of How NIPP Testing Works

Your baby’s DNA can be detected in your bloodstream early on in your pregnancy with the use of highly sensitive equipment. During lab testing, we separate the fetal DNA from your DNA to create a DNA profile for your baby. We then use the baby’s profile to test the baby’s DNA against the potential father’s DNA to determine with over 99.9% confidence whether he is the father.

Depending on the type of report requested, NIPP results can be used in legal proceedings for child custody or child support. Otherwise, the report will simply confirm paternity results for your peace of mind.

Keep Reading: How the NIPP Process Works

How Much Is a DNA Test While Pregnant?

Let’s be honest: pregnancy is expensive. Regularly scheduled tests, checkups, parenting books, prenatal vitamins — it all adds up. For those unsure about the baby’s father’s identity, prenatal paternity testing can be an added cost.

So, How Much Does a Prenatal Paternity DNA Test Cost?

It can vary by lab, and the testing lab you choose is important. Only labs that are accredited by the AABB using a wide spectrum of genetic markers (SNPs) can provide the high level of accuracy you want from a paternity test. AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies) is the leading organization that oversees DNA testing. Without this credential, you can’t be certain you’re paying for results you can trust.

Costs may also vary when you’re seeking paternity testing for legal purposes. For example, if you need a paternity DNA report for your child custody or child support case, you will need to pay for a legal paternity test. A legal test follows a very specific chain of custody process, and the report you are issued will include names and can be used in court.

For most AABB-accredited non-legal paternity DNA testing, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,000.

Safe, Noninvasive Paternity Testing at DDC

At DNA Diagnostics Center, all prenatal paternity DNA testing is done on-site at our lab for a high level of accuracy. We offer options for legal and non-legal testing, depending on your needs. We go above and beyond AABB requirements to give you peace of mind and ensure your tests are as accurate as possible.

We believe you shouldn’t have to wait for the certainty you need. Your noninvasive prenatal paternity test results will be delivered within 3 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are prenatal paternity DNA tests private?

We understand discretion is a priority for many expectant parents. Our NIPP tests are done in the privacy of your home and mailed to us in discreet, sealed packaging. If you choose a non-legal test, everything can be done anonymously, and names are not included on the report.

What kind of samples do I need for a NIPP test?

You will need a small blood sample from mom, and a cheek swab or other DNA sample, like a toothbrush or nail clippings, from the potential father. These samples can be collected at home or a clinic location.

Are DDC consultations free?

Yes! You can call for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn more about your prenatal paternity DNA testing options.