FAQs
What is DNA testing?
DNA testing is a scientific process that examines your genetic material, the blueprint of your biological makeup. This blueprint, found in almost every cell of your body, contains a unique code that determines everything from your eye color to your risk of certain diseases.
DNA testing can be used for a variety of purposes, including genetic health risk assessments, and determining biological relationships.
How do I collect a DNA sample?
Collecting a DNA sample with our test kits is simple and non-invasive. Each kit includes mouth swabs and easy-to-follow instructions to guide you through the process.
To collect the sample, gently rub the inside of your cheek with the swab for approximately 30 seconds to collect cheek cells containing your DNA. Next, place the swabs in the provided specimen envelope and follow the instructions for sending it back to our lab using the prepaid return shipping label.
How does Securicord DNA testing work?
- Order Your Kit: Select the test that best fits your needs and place your order online.
- Collect Your Sample: You'll receive a DNA collection kit at your doorstep, containing detailed instructions and all necessary materials. Collection typically involves simple, painless cheek swabs.
- Send Your Sample: Use the provided prepaid return envelope to mail your sample back to our lab. Return shipping is free!
- Lab Analysis: Your sample will be analyzed in our partner lab, which holds AABB, ISO 17025, CLIA, and CAP accreditations, ensuring the highest quality and accuracy. For STI tests, your sample will be processed in a CLIA-certified lab, with physician-reviewed results and a free telehealth consultation if your results are positive.
- Receive Your Results: You'll be notified when your results are ready. You can then securely access your comprehensive, easy-to-understand report online in your secure online results.
Are your labs accredited?
Absolutely. We pride ourselves on the quality and reliability of our testing services.
All DNA tests are performed in our state-of-the-art partner laboratory that holds all globally recognized DNA laboratory accreditations, including AABB (American Association of Blood Banks), ISO 17025 (an international standard for testing and calibration laboratories), CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments), and CAP (College of American Pathologists).
For our STI tests, we ensure they are processed in a CLIA-certified lab, with each test reviewed by a third-party independent physician.
How will I receive my results?
Once your test results are ready, we will notify you via email. To ensure your privacy and the security of your information, results can be securely downloaded from your secure online account. You will need to log in to your account using the credentials you set up when you registered your kit. This secure online platform ensures that your personal information and test results are protected.
How long does it take to get results?
Turnaround times vary depending on the test. Typically, results are available within 6 to 8 weeks. For paternity and relationship tests, results will be available within 1 to 3 business days. You can find the estimated time frame for each specific test on its product page.
You can also track the status of your test from the moment your sample is received at our lab to the final stages of analysis through your secure online account.
How accurate are your DNA tests?
Our DNA tests are designed to deliver exceptionally high accuracy. For example, the DNA Paternity Test offers more than 99.9999% accuracy in confirming paternity, providing conclusive evidence of biological relationships.
This level of precision is achieved through advanced genetic analysis techniques and rigorous quality control measures. Whether you are testing for health risks, genetic traits, or familial relationships, you can trust that our tests will provide reliable and scientifically sound results.
How are the test kits stored?
Our test kits can be stored at room temperature both before and after sample collection. There is no expiration date for the kits, but we recommend returning your samples for testing within three months of collection.
Are my results confidential?
Yes, your results are 100% confidential. Your account and results are password-protected, and only you can access them. You can change your password at any time to ensure the security of your information.
Is there any charge for return shipping?
No, there is no additional cost for returning your sample to our lab. Each test kit includes a prepaid shipping label, allowing you to send your sample back without any extra charges.
What might cause a delay in receiving my results?
Several factors can occasionally cause delays in receiving your results:
- Poor sample quality: If your DNA sample is not collected properly or is insufficient, it may need to be re-collected.
- Rare genetic variations or mutations: If your DNA contains rare variants or mutations, further testing may be required.
- Closely related alleged fathers: In paternity cases with closely related potential fathers (e.g., brothers), additional testing may be needed to determine the true biological father.
Please note: The lab will contact you directly if any of these situations occur, or if any other issues occur that may affect the timeline of your results.
Are your DNA tests suitable for all ages?
Yes, our DNA test kits are designed for individuals of any age. The painless cheek swab method we use is easy to administer and non-invasive, making it ideal for children, adults, and the elderly. For minors, a parent or legal guardian must provide consent and assist with sample collection.
Do I need to change my diet or fast before any of the DNA tests?
No, your diet does not affect your DNA. You do not need to change your diet or fast before any of our DNA tests. The only exception is to refrain from eating or drinking for 15 minutes before collecting your DNA sample. This applies to all tests, including celiac disease and lactose intolerance tests, as the ingestion of gluten or dairy products does not impact the accuracy of DNA analysis.
What are childhood DNA tests?
Childhood DNA tests are designed to provide insights into a child's genetic predispositions in various areas, such as learning styles, nutritional needs, fitness potential, and health risks. These tests can help parents and caregivers make informed decisions about their child's education, diet, and activities to maximize their potential and well-being.
At what age can I test my child?
Our childhood DNA tests are suitable for children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. The insights gained from these tests can be valuable at any stage of development.
How can the results of childhood DNA tests be used?
The results can guide you in tailoring your child's learning environment, nutrition plan, and physical activities to align with their unique genetic makeup. For example, if the test reveals a predisposition for certain learning styles, you can adapt teaching methods to better suit your child's needs. Similarly, insights into nutritional needs can help you create a personalized diet plan that supports their optimal health and growth.
Are childhood DNA tests safe?
Yes, our childhood DNA tests are completely safe. The collection process involves a simple, painless cheek swab, posing no risk to your child's health or well-being.
What types of relationship DNA tests do you offer?
We offer a wide array of relationship DNA tests to help you establish or confirm biological connections. Our tests include:
- Paternity Test: Confirms the biological relationship between a father and child.
- Maternity Test: Confirms the biological relationship between a mother and child.
- Sibling Test: Determines the likelihood of two individuals being full siblings, half-siblings, or unrelated.
- Twin Zygosity Test: Identifies whether twins are identical (monozygotic) or fraternal (dizygotic).
- Grandparent Test: Establishes the likelihood of a biological relationship between a grandparent and grandchild.
- Aunt/Uncle Test: Establishes the likelihood of a biological relationship between an aunt or uncle and their niece or nephew.
- Cousin Test: Determines the likelihood of two individuals being biological cousins.
How accurate are your relationship DNA tests?
Our paternity tests are exceptionally accurate, providing results with over 99.9999% accuracy. The accuracy of other relationship tests varies depending on the specific relationship being tested, but we use the most reliable testing methods to ensure the highest possible accuracy for each test.
Can I use your relationship DNA tests for legal purposes?
No, our relationship tests are intended for informational purposes only and do not meet the strict chain-of-custody requirements for legal DNA testing.
If you need a DNA test for legal reasons, such as child custody or immigration cases, please contact our customer support team to arrange for court-admissible legal DNA testing.
What if the parties to be tested live in different cities?
If the individuals being tested live at different addresses, we can split the kit and send the sample collection components to each address separately. Each component is individually barcoded, ensuring they are linked and tested together when they arrive back at the laboratory.
Does the mother need to be tested for a paternity case?
If the mother is certain that she is the biological mother of the child, it is not necessary to include her in the paternity test if only the alleged father is in question. A conclusive answer regarding paternity can be obtained without testing the mother.
How long does it take to get DNA relationship test results?
The turnaround time for the DNA Paternity Test and other relationship tests is 1 to 3 business days from the date the laboratory receives your samples.
Once your results are ready, you will receive an email notification, and you can securely access and download your results from your online account.
How do I collect a sample for an STI test?
The sample collection method depends on the specific STI test. Most tests require either a urine sample or a fingerprick blood sample. Detailed instructions are provided in each test kit to guide you through the collection process. For urine samples, collect your urine in the provided container. For fingerprick blood samples, use the provided lancet to prick your finger and collect a small blood sample on the provided card.
How long does it take to get STI test results?
The turnaround time for STI test results is generally 1 to 3 business days from the date your samples arrive at the laboratory.
Once your results are ready, you will receive an email notification, and you can securely access and download your results from your online account. For positive results, you will also receive a free telehealth consultation with a physician to discuss your results and the appropriate next steps.
What happens if my STI test is positive?
If your STI test result is positive, you will be provided with a free telehealth consultation with a physician. During this consultation, the physician will review your results, discuss the implications, and provide guidance on the next steps for treatment or further testing.
How often should I get tested for STIs?
The frequency of STI testing depends on your sexual activity and risk factors:
- HIV Testing: All sexually active people ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once a year.
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Testing for Women: All sexually active women younger than 25 years should be tested every year. Women 25 years and older with risk factors (such as new or multiple partners, or a partner with an STI) should also be tested annually.
- Pregnancy: Everyone who is pregnant should be tested for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C early in pregnancy, with repeat testing as needed. Pregnant individuals at risk should also be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea early in pregnancy, with repeat testing as necessary.
- Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM): Sexually active men who are gay or bisexual and men who have sex with men should be tested for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea at least once a year. Those with multiple or anonymous partners should be tested more frequently, such as every 3 to 6 months. HIV testing is recommended at least once a year, with more frequent testing (e.g., every 3 to 6 months) for those at higher risk. Hepatitis C testing is recommended at least once a year for MSM living with HIV.
- Injection Drug Users: Anyone who shares injection drug equipment should get tested for HIV at least once a year.
- Oral and Anal Sex: People who have had oral or anal sex should talk with their healthcare provider about throat and rectal testing options.