What Happens to Your DNA After Sending It to AncestryDNA

When you decide to explore your family history through genetic testing, one of the most popular and well-regarded companies in the field is AncestryDNA. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of submitting your DNA sample and explore what happens to your genetic data after the testing is complete.

Testing: The Initial Steps

The journey begins when you order and send in your DNA sample. AncestryDNA collects your DNA from the saliva you provide. The company then runs a series of tests to analyze specific variations in your genetic markers through a process known as genotyping. This genotyping process is fundamental in identifying unique genetic markers that can provide insights into your ancestral origins and potential genetic relationships.

Data Analysis: Unlocking Insights

Once your DNA has been analyzed, the results are compiled into an extensive online report. This report provides you with an ancestry ethnicity estimate, which is a statistical analysis of your genetic makeup to determine the proportions of different ancestries found in your DNA. Additionally, AncestryDNA connects you with potential genetic relatives based on shared genetic markers, allowing you to explore family histories you might not have known existed.

Sample Retention: Security and Privacy

After the testing is complete, AncestryDNA retains your DNA sample for a period of time, as stipulated in their privacy policy. This retention period can vary, but typically, they may keep your sample for quality control and additional testing. However, if you choose to, you have the right to request that your sample be destroyed. This is an essential aspect of data privacy, giving users control over their personal information. It’s crucial to always check the most current privacy policy to understand the specific details about their practices regarding DNA retention and data usage.

Data Privacy: Secure Storage and Sharing

Once your results are compiled, your genetic data is securely stored in a database with robust security measures in place. AncestryDNA offers various options for data privacy and sharing. You can choose to share your results with other users, allowing you to connect with distant relatives or participate in research initiatives. Alternatively, you can prevent your data from being used for any purpose outside of the testing process. It’s important to be aware of these options, ensuring that your privacy is respected and protected.

Destruction or Retention: Your Choices

If you desire to delete your account or request the destruction of your DNA sample, AncestryDNA is legally obligated to comply with your request, as outlined in their policies. However, it’s worth noting that some aggregate data may still remain for research purposes, depending on the consent you provided when submitting your sample. This can be a delicate balance between maintaining privacy and enabling scientific advancements in the field of genetics.

For the majority of users, the default is to retain the biological sample. If you prefer to have it destroyed, you can easily request this through your account settings. Once your DNA sample is processed, what remains is a digital data file that contains the relevant information about your genetic markers. This is similar to any form of personal information that is entered into a database. AncestryDNA ensures that this data is securely stored and managed.

To ensure that your DNA sample is securely stored, after the testing is complete, any remaining DNA from your test is archived and stored in a temperature-controlled facility with 24-hour security. Access to this facility is strictly limited, ensuring that only authorized personnel can handle your sample.

One of the most powerful aspects of AncestryDNA testing is its ability to help you connect with distant relatives. Even if the person you are looking for hasn’t taken the AncestryDNA test, a close relative of theirs may have. This can be a game-changer in tracing your family history and discovering long-lost relatives. While you wait for your results, you can start documenting your biological family by building a family tree. This can provide a clearer picture of your ancestry and help to fill in gaps in your family history.

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