How accurate is a blood test for gender?

In this article, we discuss baby gender testing, how the test works, and the accuracy of a baby gender test.

Read the full article below.

What is a blood test for gender?

A blood test for gender – also called a baby gender test or prenatal gender test – is a type of DNA test used to verify the gender of an unborn baby while they are still in utero (in the womb).

This type of test uses a blood sample from the mother (from 6 weeks into pregnancy) to determine whether any Y-chromosomal DNA is present in the mother’s bloodstream.

If a Y chromosome is present, the baby is a boy. If there is no Y chromosome present, the baby is a girl.

How does a baby gender test work?

Every human being has a pair of sex chromosomes in each cell. The Y chromosome is present in males, who have one X and one Y chromosome, while females have two X chromosomes.

For a baby gender test, the mother’s blood sample is analysed by expert geneticists to determine if foetal DNA with a Y chromosome is present in the mother’s blood stream.

If a Y chromosome is detected, this indicates that the baby is a boy. If no Y chromosome is detected, this means that the baby is a girl.

How accurate is a blood test for gender?

A blood test is the most accurate way of determining a baby’s gender before he or she is born.

Although ultrasound scans are commonly used to determine the gender of an unborn baby between weeks 18 and 22 of pregnancy, these scans are not always correct.

This is because if the ultrasound technician cannot get a clear view of the baby’s genitals, it may not be possible to confirm whether the baby is a boy or a girl.

The results of an AlphaBiolabs Baby Gender Test are 99% accurate and reliable based on the samples we receive at our laboratory.

Order an Early Baby Gender Test Online

We use state-of-the-art processes to determine whether any Y-chromosomal DNA is present in the mother’s bloodstream. If a Y chromosome is detected, this indicates that the baby is a boy. If no Y chromosome is detected, this means that the baby is a girl.

For the highest chance of a conclusive result, the mother must be at least 6 weeks’ pregnant when providing a blood sample for testing.

This is to ensure there is enough foetal DNA in the mother’s bloodstream for the Y chromosome (if present) to be at a detectable level.

What samples are required for a blood test for gender?

An AlphaBiolabs Baby Gender Test requires a blood sample from the mother, which must be collected when mum is at least 6 weeks pregnant, to ensure any Y chromosome present in the blood is at a detectable level.

We provide four options for sample collection for your baby gender test. Whichever sample collection option you choose, you’ll receive your results in 3-4 business days after we receive your blood sample at our laboratory:

• Self-collect at home with TinyTAP
  Collect your blood sample in the comfort of your own home, with our easy-to-use, pain-free TinyTAP device. Simply press the device against your arm to collect your sample – ideal for people who are needle-phobic, with no clinical appointments required.
  AlphaBiolabs is the ONLY laboratory in Ireland to offer this device for blood sample collection.
• Organise your own blood sample collection 
  Arrange your own blood sample collection with a trained medical professional (e.g. doctor, nurse, phlebotomist). Your test kit includes clear guidance to ensure the sample is taken correctly.
• Walk-in centre sample collection 
  Book a blood draw with an AlphaBiolabs sample collector at one of our walk-in centres.
  Simply order your test and a member of our team will contact you to arrange your blood draw.
• Home visit sample collection 
  Book a blood draw with an AlphaBiolabs sample collector at home or another convenient location of your choice.
  Simply order your test and a member of our team will contact you to arrange your blood draw

Order a Baby Gender Test Online

Where can I buy a Baby Gender Test?

It’s easy to find out the sex of your baby from as soon as 6 weeks into pregnancy, with the AlphaBiolabs Baby Gender Test.

All that’s required for a baby gender test is a small blood sample from mum, which you can collect in the comfort of your own home using our innovative, pain-free TinyTAP device. Simply press the device against your arm to collect your sample.

We are the only laboratory in Ireland to offer the fuss-free TinyTAP device for baby gender testing!

Alternatively, you have the option to organise your own sample collection or book an appointment with a professional sample collector at one of our walk-in centres, or at a location convenient to you.

Order your Baby Gender Test online now or contact us on 01 402 9466 / info@alphabiolabs.ie for guidance on which sample collection option is best for you.