Do you wonder if your partner is cheating?  Maybe you’ve been suspicious about your partner’s behavior lately? You’re probably hurt, confused, and doubting everything. Is there a way to prove one way or the other if they are having an affair? How does lab infidelity testing really work?  Rest assured–you can get the reliable answers you need to make potentially life changing decisions.

Semen Detection

While there are a variety of semen detection tests out there, lab testing is the only 100% reliable way to confirm a stain is semen.  There are two lab test options available–semenogelin and microscopy.  First is the semenogelin test.  This test is specific to human semen. It will detect even very diluted samples of semen or semen mixed with other body fluids — in other words, the semen test will not cross react causing a false positive result.  For this reason it’s the test crime and forensic labs use to confirm that semen is present on a sample. It is the follow up test done on all the other presumptive test samples.  Microscopy, or the Christmas tree test,  uses chemical reagents that color the head and tail portions of the sperm cells in different colors.  This works only if there are sperm in the semen.  If a man’s had a vasectomy, or naturally doesn’t produce sperm, it won’t be able to confirm that semen is present.  Further testing is required.

There are also several varieties of home semen detection tests available.  They each look for different proteins or enzymes found in semen.  Because the substances they look for can be found in bodily fluids other than semen, they all are presumptive.  This means any results need to be proven with a follow up lab test to confirm the results are accurate. No semen detection test, whether lab or home testing kit, can give you genetic information, or tell you if more than one man’s semen is present.  For that, you need DNA testing.

scientist with test tube semen detection test

Infidelity DNA Testing

DNA infidelity testing is the ultimate test for many who want to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that their partner is being unfaithful.  There’s no denying the presence of DNA that doesn’t belong to you. If you’ve found underwear, clothing, panty liners, or other items with signs of sexual activity it can be tested for DNA.  It’s normally completed within eight to ten days, and can tell you if the semen or DNA in a stain is male or female; yours or someone else’s.

DNA detection testing, also called gender determination testing, will determine if DNA is present and if it’s male or female or a mixture of both. This test is used when you only need to know if there is male or female DNA present on a item.

DNA comparison testing will tell you if DNA is present, the gender, and if any matches a sample you provide.  The comparison sample is usually in the form of a buccal or cheek swab, but many different items can be used. Things such as clothing, bedding, undergarments, and toothbrushes can be tested.  No blood is required. This test is done when you want to confirm that any DNA present does or does not belong to a specific person.