Understanding Your DNA Test Results
For many clients, receiving DNA test results can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first experience with DNA testing. At DNA Test Answers, we believe results should be clear, transparent, and easy to understand. This guide explains how DNA test results are generated, what the numbers mean, and how to interpret results across paternity, relationship, and infidelity DNA testing.
How DNA Analysis Works
All DNA testing performed by DNA Test Answers is conducted at accredited laboratories using advanced scientific methods. During testing, DNA is extracted from the submitted samples and analyzed using a process called PCR, or polymerase chain reaction.
PCR allows laboratories to:
Work with extremely small DNA samples
Amplify specific genetic regions
Produce highly accurate and repeatable results
This technology forms the foundation of modern DNA testing and is used worldwide for relationship testing, forensic testing, and medical research.
Understanding DNA Loci and Genetic Markers
DNA test reports are based on the analysis of genetic loci, also known as markers. These are specific locations on the DNA strand that vary between individuals.
On your DNA test report, you will typically see:
A list of 20 or more loci
Two numbers listed for each locus
Sex markers (X - Female, XY - Male)
Each person inherits:
One number from their biological mother
One number from their biological father
For example:
A child shows numbers 12 and 18 at a specific locus
The alleged father shows 18 and 2 at the same locus
This tells the laboratory that the child inherited the 18 from the father and the 12 from the mother.
By comparing multiple DNA profiles, the laboratory determines biological relationships with a very high level of certainty.
Do You Need the Mother’s DNA Sample?
A paternity test can be completed accurately without the mother’s DNA sample, and many cases are processed this way.
However, DNA Test Answers always recommends including the mother when possible because:
It allows for clearer marker separation
It improves result confidence
It helps resolve rare genetic mutations
In exceptional cases involving mutations, the mother’s sample may be essential. If you are unsure whether to include the mother, our team can help guide you.
Relationship DNA Testing Results Explained
Relationship DNA testing examines whether two or more individuals share a biological connection. Results are reported as either an inclusion or exclusion.
Paternity Test Results
Paternity test results are among the most straightforward DNA reports.
Excluded as the biological father:
Insufficient matching genetic markers
Probability of paternity: 0%
Included as the biological father:
Sufficient matching genetic markers
Probability of paternity: 99.99%
These results provide a clear yes-or-no answer regarding biological paternity.
Sibling and Other Relationship Test Results
Sibling, grandparent, avuncular, and other relationship tests rely on statistical probability rather than absolute inclusion or exclusion.
Results typically include:
A likelihood ratio or relationship index
A probability percentage
Because extended relationships share fewer genetic markers than parent-child relationships, results may be reported as:
The Genetic Evidence Indicates the Tested Relationship is Supported (Are related for the test performed) - More than 90% probability percentage
The Genetic Evidence Indicates the Tested Relationship is Not Supported (Are NOT related for the test performed) - Less than 10% probability percentage
Inconclusive - Between 10% and 90% probability percentage
Including additional family members, usually a known mother, can significantly lower the chance of an inconclusive result and strengthen test results.
Understanding Infidelity DNA Test Results
Infidelity DNA testing focuses on identifying biological material and determining whether DNA is present, whose DNA it may be, and whether multiple contributors exist.
Semen Detection Test Results
Semen detection tests determine whether semen is present on an item such as:
Clothing
Bedding
Personal fabrics
Results are reported as:
Positive - Semen was detected
Negative - Semen was NOT detected
These tests do not identify a specific individual, only the presence or absence of semen. Semen Detection Test are qualitative and not quantitative in nature, meaning they give a Yes or No answer and do not tell how much semen or sperm are present.
DNA Extraction and Comparison Results
These tests go beyond simple DNA detection and includes:
Extraction of DNA from submitted samples
Generation of a DNA profile(s)
Sex markers - male, female, or a mix of both
Comparison of profiles to determine whether DNA belongs to:
The same individual
Different individuals
Results may show:
A single DNA contributor
Multiple DNA contributors
Insufficient DNA for comparison
Because these samples are often limited or degraded, outcomes may vary. In some cases, a partial profile may still provide useful information.
Why Some Results Are Inconclusive
An inconclusive result does not mean testing failed. Common reasons include:
Low levels of DNA
Degraded samples
Mixed DNA from multiple contributors where one may completely overshadow any other contributors.
DNA Test Answers evaluates every sample carefully and reports only scientifically reliable conclusions.
Accuracy and Reliability of DNA Test Results
All testing is performed using validated laboratory procedures and quality controls. Results are:
Extremely accurate
Scientifically defensible
Consistent with international testing standards
Proper sample collection and handling play a critical role in result quality.
Final Thoughts
DNA test results provide powerful insights, but understanding how they are generated makes them even more meaningful. Whether you are reviewing paternity results, relationship testing outcomes, or infidelity DNA analysis, DNA Test Answers is committed to providing clarity, accuracy, and support every step of the way.
If you have questions about your results or need help interpreting a report, our team is always available to assist you.
