What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're waiting on results from a prenatal genetic test and need to be sure those results actually reflect the baby's genetic makeup and not the mother's cells. Maternal cells can sometimes mix in with fetal samples during collection, which can throw off the accuracy of genetic testing. This study checks for that kind of mix-up so you and your care team can trust the results of other fetal genetic tests.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a technique called STR analysis, which looks at 15 highly specific genetic markers, or loci, that vary a lot from person to person. Comparing these markers between the maternal sample and the fetal sample helps confirm whether any maternal cells accidentally got mixed into the fetal specimen. This matters because even a small amount of contamination can make other genetic test results inaccurate or misleading.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account, with a clear explanation of what the finding means for the reliability of your related fetal genetic test. If contamination is ruled out, no further action is typically needed and you can move forward confidently with your other test results. If contamination is detected, the next step is usually a repeat sample collection to get a clean result. You can download a standard lab report from your account anytime, and if you ever need this type of testing again, you can track past results through the trends feature.

How can I naturally support accurate prenatal testing results?

While you can't control lab handling, you can help by following all collection instructions carefully and making sure samples are taken by an experienced professional to reduce the chance of cell mixing. Staying well hydrated before sample collection can also make the collection process smoother. If a repeat sample is ever needed, try to schedule it as soon as possible to avoid delays in getting your fetal genetic results.

When will I get my results?

Results from this Maternal Cell Contamination Study are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is received at the lab. This timeframe allows for the detailed comparison of the 15 genetic markers between maternal and fetal samples. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is typically considered alongside other fetal genetic testing, especially when there's any concern about sample quality or when results from a prenatal genetic test seem unclear or unexpected. It's also commonly used as a routine quality check whenever fetal genetic material is being analyzed. Anyone undergoing invasive prenatal testing, like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, may benefit from this added layer of verification.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

This isn't a symptom-based test — it doesn't relate to how you feel physically. Instead, it's used whenever there's a technical need to confirm that a fetal genetic sample wasn't accidentally mixed with maternal cells. If your fetal genetic test results come back unclear, unexpected, or hard to interpret, this study is often used to check whether contamination could be the cause.

What is maternal cell contamination and why does it matter?

Maternal cell contamination happens when small amounts of the mother's own cells accidentally end up mixed into a sample that's supposed to only contain fetal cells. This matters because even a little contamination can change the outcome of genetic tests, potentially leading to inaccurate or confusing results. Confirming there's no contamination gives confidence that any genetic findings truly reflect the baby, not the mother.

How often should I retest?

This test is generally only needed once per pregnancy, alongside the specific fetal genetic test it's meant to verify. If a first sample shows signs of contamination, a repeat collection and retest is recommended to get a clean, reliable result. There's usually no need to repeat it beyond that unless a new fetal sample is collected for another reason.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your results show contamination, the best next step is to arrange for a new sample to be collected as cleanly as possible, ideally as soon as you can to avoid delays. This helps make sure the fetal genetic test tied to this sample can be trusted. Following the collection instructions closely on the repeat draw can help prevent the issue from happening again.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Maternal Cell Contamination Study - Verify Fetal Test Accuracy

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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