Paternity testing provides the answer to the question, “Who is the father of my child?” While most paternal DNA testing is straightforward, it can prove difficult when the alleged fathers are identical twins. Below, learn what makes testing identical twins so challenging and what can be done to determine parentage.

Why Is Paternity Testing With Identical Twins So Difficult?

Identical vs. Fraternal Twins

Identical or monozygotic twins form when a fertilized egg splits in two on its way to the uterus. The resulting fetuses share near-exact DNA, or 99.9% genetic similarities. This makes it extremely challenging to determine paternity if the mother had sexual relations with identical twin brothers.

Unlike identical twins, fraternal twins occur when two separate eggs are fertilized by two different sperm. Also known as dizygotic twins, such individuals are 50% similar in terms of genetic makeup. However, determining paternity with fraternal brothers is a much easier process because each individual still has a unique genetic code. The DNA testing procedure is subsequently the same as it is for non-twin potential fathers.

Determining Parentage

Identifying the father between identical twins is not impossible. Highly advanced testing services that look beyond the standard 15 DNA markers can provide the results parents need to move forward. These often-expensive tests review entire genetic sequences and therefore look at up to 6 billion genetic markers. While extensive services are perhaps the future of paternity testing, these options are not currently available to the public.

If paternity testing is the right choice for your family, contact AccuDNA. Since 2004, they’ve offered a full suite of relationship testing services to clients throughout Missouri’s St. Louis metropolitan area. This facility uses cheek cell samples only and adheres to HIPAA guidelines. Call (314) 845-9997 today to speak with a live operator, or visit the website for more about paternity testing services. Get the latest updates on Facebook.