5 myths about AncestryDNA tests

Consumer DNA testing is becoming increasingly popular.

Fifteen million people have already taken an AncestryDNA test to learn more about their families’ origins.

Despite its rising popularity, a number of myths persist. Here are 5 myths about taking an AncestryDNA test.

Myth 1: If your sibling took an AncestryDNA test, you already know what your results will be

We get 50% of our DNA from each parent, so only identical twins have the exact same DNA.

So unless you’re an identical twin, your AncestryDNA test results will likely be different to your sibling. 

Take the results of sisters Lisa and Franceen who share the same set of biological parents.

While Lisa had British ancestry show up in her DNA, her sister Franceen had no British ancestry appear.

So if Lisa hadn’t taken an AncestryDNA test, she never would have discovered her unique connection to Britain.

Myth 2: Like all DNA tests, AncestryDNA requires a blood sample

Luckily for those wary of needles, an AncestryDNA test uses a simple saliva sample to test your DNA.

While you might feel a bit silly, prepping your sample is relatively quick, with some serious science behind it.

Myth 3: If you know your family history, an AncestryDNA test definitely will not surprise you

Some people are very knowledgeable about their family’s past. They’ve got lots of stories and photos and may even have extensive family trees going back centuries.

But even family historians might be surprised.

Elaine did genealogy research for three decades.

She thought she knew everything there was to know about her family story, but she was still surprised by the possibility of having Asian ancestry.

Myth 4: Once you take an AncestryDNA test, you don’t retain ownership of your DNA

Many people wonder if once you take an AncestryDNA test, you no longer own your data.

AncestryDNA does not claim ownership rights in the DNA that is submitted for testing. You own your DNA.

For more information, check out Ancestry’s privacy centre.

Myth 5: An AncestryDNA test will only uncover your ethnic mix

You may have heard stories about people who were surprised to learn where in the world their DNA actually came from.

But that’s not all an AncestrDNA test tells you. It also shows you “DNA matches,” which are other AncestryDNA test takers you might be related to.

You could discover that you’re related to someone in your town, just like Sylvia and Steve.

Ready to find out the amazing insights and connections your DNA might reveal?

Get your AncestryDNA test today.