Doing a Paternity and Maternity Test After In Vitro Fertilization: Why and How?
- Info Test ADN
- Aug 3
- 4 min read
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is today a valuable solution for many couples facing infertility. It offers the possibility of conceiving a child despite medical difficulties and represents immense hope. But like any complex procedure involving biological and medical manipulations, IVF is not without risks. Certain situations may lead parents to want to verify that the implanted embryo truly came from their own gametes, and therefore to consider a paternity test, a maternity test, or both combined.
In this article, we will explain in detail what IVF is, what risks may lead to considering a DNA test, and how to perform a paternity and/or maternity test after in vitro fertilization.
What is in vitro fertilization?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a medically assisted reproduction (MAR) technique. It involves collecting eggs from the mother (or a donor), fertilizing them with sperm from the father (or a donor) in a laboratory, and then transferring the resulting embryo into the mother’s uterus.
This technique has been practiced for several decades and its success rate continues to evolve thanks to scientific progress. It represents a real opportunity for couples who have difficulty conceiving naturally, whether due to ovulation problems, poor sperm quality, blocked fallopian tubes, or unexplained infertility.
What are the risks associated with IVF?
In vitro fertilization involves several delicate steps: ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, laboratory fertilization, and embryo transfer. While the vast majority of procedures are incident-free, some risks do exist.
1. Laboratory handling errors
Although exceptional, human errors can occur during the handling of gametes (eggs and sperm) or embryos. This may involve mixing samples, confusing two embryos, or an accidental switch. These incidents are extremely rare, but the mere possibility prompts some parents to want to verify that the child’s DNA truly matches that of the intended parents.
2. Use of anonymous donors
In some protocols, gametes (sperm or eggs) from donors may be used. Parents may wish to confirm after birth that the gametes used were indeed those intended, especially when the procedure involves multiple anonymous donors.
3. Parental doubt or anxiety
IVF is a challenging journey, both physically and emotionally. After the birth, some parents feel the need to remove any uncertainty and scientifically verify that the child was conceived using their own gametes.
In short, while IVF is a safe and regulated technique, the need for biological verification is understandable in some situations.
Why perform a DNA test after IVF?
Parents who have undergone in vitro fertilization may want to perform a DNA test for several reasons:
To confirm paternity: verify that the sperm used came from the intended father.
To confirm maternity: verify that the eggs used came from the intended mother.
To rule out handling errors: eliminate any doubt about an accidental exchange of gametes or embryos.
To obtain legal proof: have an official document confirming biological parentage, particularly in case of disputes.
This is not merely a matter of curiosity but often a deep need for certainty and reassurance, helping families feel completely at ease.
Which DNA tests can be performed after IVF?
At InfoTestADN, we offer several types of DNA tests suited to the different situations encountered after in vitro fertilization.
1. Paternity test
A paternity test compares the child’s DNA with that of the alleged father. It scientifically confirms whether the tested man is the biological father of the child.
How does it work?
The test analyzes several specific regions of DNA (loci). If the child consistently shares one allele (genetic variation) with the tested man at these loci, paternity is confirmed with a probability greater than 99.99%.
When is it used?
It is performed when there is doubt about the sperm used during IVF (handling error, sample mix-up, uncertainty regarding the donor’s identity).
2. Maternity test
A maternity test verifies that the child’s DNA matches that of the woman who provided the eggs or carried the child.
How does it work?
The principle is the same as for the paternity test: the child’s DNA is compared to that of the presumed mother. A match across all tested loci confirms biological maternity.
When is it used?
It is particularly useful when donor eggs were used or when there is doubt about a possible embryo exchange.
3. Combined paternity and maternity test
For couples who wish to verify both paternity and maternity, we can offer a combined test, analyzing the DNA of both parents and the child simultaneously.
Why choose this test?
It provides double confirmation in a single process and offers complete peace of mind for families.
How to perform a DNA test after IVF?
The procedure is simple, quick, and completely painless.
Contact our team: explain your situation. We will advise you on the most suitable test (paternity, maternity, or combined).
Receive your collection kit: we send a home kit containing sterile swabs.
Collect the samples: this involves a buccal swab, which means rubbing a cotton swab inside the cheek. It is painless and can be done even on a baby.
Send the samples back to the laboratory: instructions are included in the kit.
Receive your results: analyses are conducted in a specialized laboratory, and you receive your results within just a few days.
Our offer: a test tailored to your situation
At InfoTestADN, we know that the IVF journey can be emotionally intense. That is why we offer personalized support and reliable DNA tests performed in accredited laboratories.
Whether you need to confirm paternity, maternity, or both, we can offer you a combined test. Feel free to contact us to discuss your situation and obtain a personalized quote.