Often, it’s difficult to tell whether twins are identical or fraternal. Fraternal twins of the same sex may have very similar features, while identical twins can have distinct physical features that enable others to easily differentiate between them. A twin zygosity test can quickly reveal with certainty whether twins are fraternal or identical. We compare the twins’ DNA profiles—identical twins will have exactly the same profile.
Determining Twin Zygosity
At birth, a physician is usually able to tell from the placentas whether the babies are fraternal or identical. Identical twins share one placenta, while fraternal twins have separate placentas. However, the placenta may be damaged during the birthing process, so that the doctor cannot use it to determine twin zygosity. Many adults also take the twin zygosity test—their medical records might have been lost, or some twins may have been separated at birth. In such cases, a twin zygosity DNA test is the most accurate and convenient, and often only, option.
Health Implications of Twin Zygosity
Many patients take the twin zygosity test just to satisfy their curiosity, but there are other health benefits from taking the test. Knowing your complete medical history, including twin zygosity, is always important in the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of disease. Identical twins are also perfect organ donors for each other, should such a need arise.
Tested Parties
In a twin zygosity test, only the twins need to be tested.
Sample Collection
We will send you a Beta Self-Collection™ kit containing everything you need to collect DNA samples. Sample collection is painless and simple. You will use buccal swabs, which are like long cotton swabs, to collect loose cheek cells by rubbing against the inner cheek. For more details, please visit the sample collection page.
Sometimes, clients require a twin zygosity test for legal reasons. While convenient and private, sample collection using the Beta Self-Collection™ kit does not follow the Chain of Custody collection procedure needed for DNA test results to be accepted in courts and other government agencies. This procedure requires you to go to an appointment to have your samples collected by an unbiased third party, usually a trained professional.
Order the Test
Call us at 1-800-798-3810 or use our online contact form to start your testing process today. Our friendly, knowledgeable specialists will answer all your questions so that you can be confident about the DNA test that you’re about to take.
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