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Can a DNA Test Tell Who the Father Is During Pregnancy?
FatherhoodHealth & WellnessParentingPregnancySex & RelationshipsYour Health

Can a DNA Test During Pregnancy Tell Who the Father Is?

by BabyYumYum
written by BabyYumYum

Waiting for a baby comes with plenty of questions, and for some families, one of the biggest is establishing paternity before birth. Advances in genetic testing now make it possible to find answers much earlier than many people realise. Can a DNA test tell who the father is during pregnancy? Thanks to modern non-invasive technology, it is possible to determine biological paternity safely and accurately during pregnancy, giving families clarity and confidence as they plan for the future.

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For many expectant parents, pregnancy is filled with excitement, anticipation and countless questions about the future. Occasionally, however, one question stands above the rest: who is the biological father?

Until relatively recently, confirming paternity during pregnancy often involved invasive procedures that carried risks for both mother and baby. Today, advances in genetic science have changed that. Modern DNA technology makes it possible to establish paternity before birth through a simple blood sample from the mother and a DNA sample from the alleged father, without disturbing the pregnancy.

If you have ever wondered whether a DNA test can identify the father during pregnancy, the answer is yes. Here’s how it works and why more families are choosing this option.

Why Do People Choose Prenatal Paternity Testing?

Every family has a different story, and the decision to undergo prenatal paternity testing is deeply personal. Contrary to popular belief, these tests are not always linked to conflict or legal disputes. Some parents want certainty before the baby arrives so they can prepare emotionally and financially. Others require confirmation for legal or immigration purposes, while some want peace of mind before making important life decisions.

Common reasons include:

  • Establishing biological parentage early in pregnancy
  • Reducing uncertainty before the baby’s birth
  • Supporting legal or family planning decisions
  • Providing reassurance for both parents
  • Clarifying family medical history

How Can a DNA Test Work Before a Baby Is Born?

Many people are surprised to learn that a baby’s DNA naturally circulates in the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy. Known as cell-free fetal DNA, these tiny fragments can be analysed alongside a DNA sample from the alleged father. Scientists compare genetic markers from both samples to determine whether there is a biological relationship. This means there is no need to collect samples directly from the baby, making the process significantly less invasive than older testing methods.

Is Prenatal Paternity Testing Safe?

Safety is understandably one of the biggest concerns for expecting parents. Traditional prenatal paternity tests often relied on procedures such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), both of which involve collecting samples from inside the uterus and are typically performed only when medically necessary.

Modern non-invasive prenatal paternity testing is different. The test requires only a blood sample from the pregnant mother and a cheek swab or other approved DNA sample from the alleged father. Because there is no direct contact with the pregnancy, there is no additional procedure-related risk to the developing baby.

How Accurate Are Modern Prenatal DNA Tests?

DNA testing has become one of the most reliable scientific methods available for confirming biological relationships. Using advanced genetic analysis, modern laboratories compare multiple DNA markers to determine paternity with an extremely high level of accuracy. Choosing an experienced laboratory with recognised accreditation is important, as laboratory standards play a significant role in ensuring reliable results.

When During Pregnancy Can Testing Be Performed?

One of the advantages of non-invasive prenatal paternity testing is that answers can be obtained before birth, allowing parents to make informed decisions earlier in the pregnancy. Many families choose testing after discovering an unexpected pregnancy, before making long-term parenting arrangements or when uncertainty is causing significant emotional stress. Having clarity before the baby arrives can help reduce anxiety and allow everyone involved to focus on preparing for the new addition to the family.

What Happens During the Testing Process?

The process is surprisingly straightforward. A healthcare professional collects a blood sample from the pregnant mother while a DNA sample is collected from the alleged father, typically using a painless cheek swab. The samples are then analysed in an accredited laboratory where specialists compare genetic markers to determine biological parentage.

For families looking for a private and reliable option, the Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test from EasyDNA South Africa provides a confidential way to establish paternity before birth without invasive procedures.

Why More Families Are Choosing Non-Invasive Testing

Advances in DNA technology have transformed prenatal paternity testing from a complex medical procedure into a straightforward laboratory test. Instead of waiting until after delivery or considering invasive alternatives, many parents now prefer a non-invasive prenatal paternity test that provides highly reliable results while prioritising the wellbeing of both mother and baby.

For many families, certainty before birth provides an opportunity to plan with confidence, reduce emotional stress and begin the next chapter with greater peace of mind.

The Bottom Line

Questions about paternity can be difficult, but obtaining accurate information no longer requires invasive procedures or waiting until after a baby is born. Modern DNA science allows expecting parents to access answers safely, confidentially and with a high level of accuracy. If uncertainty is creating stress during pregnancy, learning more about a prenatal paternity test in South Africa may be the first step towards finding clarity.

Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal or psychological advice. Every individual and family situation is unique, and decisions regarding DNA or prenatal paternity testing should be made carefully after considering the potential emotional, legal and personal implications. Readers should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional, legal advisor or counsellor where appropriate. This article contains affiliate links, which means BabyYumYum may earn a small commission if you purchase a product or service through one of these links, at no additional cost to you. We only feature products and services that we believe are relevant and valuable to our readers and our editorial content remains independent.

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Does It Seem Like Everyone Is on GLP-1 These Days?
Your HealthHealth & Wellness

Does It Seem Like Everyone Is Using GLP-1 For Weight Loss These Days?

by BabyYumYum
written by BabyYumYum

One moment, no one had heard of GLP‑1. The next, your neighbour is talking about Ozempic, celebrities are accused of using Wegovy, and your social feed is flooded with Mounjaro. GLP‑1 has become the health world’s version of that song you can’t escape. Whether it’s dramatic weight loss stories, ethical debates, or people simply asking what GLP‑1 actually is, there’s no denying it has become one of the biggest health conversations of the decade.

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If it feels like GLP-1 medications are suddenly everywhere, you’re not imagining it. From celebrity interviews and social media discussions to conversations at work and family gatherings, drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound have become part of mainstream culture. What was once a relatively niche treatment for type 2 diabetes has evolved into one of the biggest healthcare stories of the decade.

But why does it seem like everyone is taking a GLP-1 medication? Is the hype justified, or are we simply noticing these drugs more because they dominate headlines? The reality lies somewhere in between.

The Rise of GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic a naturally occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1. These drugs help regulate blood sugar levels, slow stomach emptying and increase feelings of fullness. Initially developed for managing type 2 diabetes, researchers soon discovered they could also produce significant weight loss in many patients.

Clinical trials have shown impressive results. According to research published in the New England Journal of Medicine, participants taking semaglutide for weight management lost substantially more weight than those receiving a placebo. Similar findings have been reported for newer medications such as tirzepatide, with studies published in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrating even greater average weight reduction in some patient groups.

These results are noteworthy because long-term weight loss has historically been difficult to achieve and maintain through lifestyle changes alone. For many patients, GLP-1 medications represent a treatment option that produces clinically meaningful outcomes.

Why It Feels Like They’re Everywhere

One reason GLP-1 medications seem so common is that obesity affects a significant portion of the population. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity remains a major public health concern in the United States and many other countries. When a treatment emerges that appears more effective than previous options, interest naturally grows.

Another factor is social visibility. Weight loss is often noticeable and when someone experiences a dramatic physical transformation, friends, family members and colleagues tend to ask questions. As more people share their experiences online, awareness spreads even further.

Media coverage has also played a significant role. Stories about shortages, celebrity use, healthcare costs and the broader implications of these medications have kept them in the public eye. Even individuals who have never considered taking a GLP-1 have likely encountered news articles or social media posts discussing them.

The Cultural Shift Around Weight Management

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the GLP-1 phenomenon is how it is changing conversations about weight and obesity. 

For decades, public discussions have often framed weight management primarily as a matter of willpower and personal responsibility. While healthy eating and physical activity remain essential, modern research increasingly recognises obesity as a complex, chronic disease influenced by genetics, hormones, the environment and other biological factors.

Organisations such as the World Health Organization acknowledge that obesity is a multifaceted condition requiring comprehensive treatment approaches. The popularity of GLP-1 medications has accelerated public awareness of this perspective.

Whether one agrees with widespread pharmaceutical treatment or not, the conversation has undeniably shifted. Many healthcare professionals now emphasise that obesity treatment should be individualised rather than reduced to simplistic advice.

Are GLP-1 Medications Being Overhyped?

As with many breakthrough treatments, enthusiasm can sometimes outpace reality. GLP-1 medications are not magic solutions. They can be expensive, may not be covered by insurance and can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises patients to discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare providers before starting treatment.

Additionally, research suggests that some individuals regain weight after discontinuing medication. This has led to ongoing discussions about whether obesity medications should be viewed similarly to treatments for other chronic conditions that require long-term management.

From an opinion standpoint, the current public discourse sometimes swings between two extremes. On one side are those who portray GLP-1 medications as miracle drugs. On the other hand are critics who dismiss them entirely. The evidence supports neither position. These medications appear to be valuable tools for many patients, but they are not appropriate or necessary for everyone.

Does It Seem Like Everyone Is on GLP-1 These Days?

What Happens Next?

The rapid adoption of GLP-1 medications may represent the beginning of a larger transformation in metabolic healthcare. Researchers are investigating additional benefits beyond weight loss, including effects on cardiovascular health, diabetes prevention and other metabolic conditions.

For example, findings reported by the American Heart Association and related clinical studies have highlighted potential cardiovascular benefits in certain patient populations. As more data emerges, the role of these medications may continue to expand.

At the same time, questions about affordability, access, long-term safety and healthcare equity remain unresolved. These issues will likely shape the next phase of the GLP-1 story.

ALSO READ: Weighing up the pros and cons of weight loss drugs

Final Thoughts

So, does it seem like everyone is on a GLP-1 medication these days? In reality, probably not everyone, but enough people are using them that their presence is impossible to ignore.

The popularity of GLP-1 drugs reflects more than a healthcare trend. It highlights evolving scientific understanding, changing attitudes toward obesity and growing demand for effective treatment options. While the excitement surrounding these medications is understandable, the most balanced perspective is to view them as one important tool within a broader approach to health and weight management.

As research continues and access expands, GLP-1 medications will likely remain a major topic of discussion, not because they’re a fad, but because they have fundamentally changed the conversation around metabolic health.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical condition, medication or treatment decision. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information contained in this article.

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Age, Eggs and Fertility: What Science Says
InfertilityFertility & Treatments

Age, Eggs and Fertility: What Science Says

by Ally Cohen, Content Creator and Digital Marketer
written by Ally Cohen, Content Creator and Digital Marketer

Few topics create more anxiety for women than fertility and age. Everywhere you look, there are warnings about biological clocks, declining egg quality and rising infertility rates, often delivered in ways that are more frightening than helpful. Conversations around age, eggs and fertility are rarely as simple as social media makes them sound. Fertility is influenced by many factors and while age does play a role, the research paints a far more detailed picture than the panic-driven headlines many women are used to seeing.

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Age is one of the biggest factors linked to fertility issues, but it is not the whole story. Many people only start hearing about egg quality, ovarian reserve, IVF success rates and miscarriage risk when they are already trying to conceive. By then, the information can feel overwhelming, emotional and sometimes frightening.

While fertility does decline with age, especially for women, the decline is not the same for everyone. Male age can also play a role. IVF can help many couples, but it cannot completely reverse the effect of age on egg quality. 

What Infertility Means

The World Health Organization defines infertility as a disease of the male or female reproductive system where pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sex. Infertility can affect women, men or both partners.

Globally, around 1 in 6 people experience infertility during their lifetime. This makes infertility a common health issue, not a rare personal failure. In South Africa, many couples also face added barriers such as cost, access to fertility clinics and limited medical aid coverage for assisted reproduction.

How Age Affects Female Fertility

Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have. Over time, both the number and quality of those eggs decline. This is why age is such a strong predictor of fertility.

Fertility does not suddenly disappear at 35. The decline is gradual, but research shows it becomes more noticeable from the early 30s and more significant after about 35 to 37. By 40, natural conception becomes harder for many women, although not impossible.

The reason is partly egg quantity and partly egg quality. Egg quantity refers to how many eggs remain. Egg quality refers to whether an egg has the right number of chromosomes and can develop into a healthy embryo.

Egg Quantity vs Egg Quality

Ovarian reserve tests such as AMH and antral follicle count can help estimate how the ovaries may respond during fertility treatment. However, they do not give a complete answer about natural fertility.

A low AMH does not mean pregnancy is impossible. A normal AMH does not guarantee pregnancy either. These tests are most useful when planning fertility treatment, especially IVF.

Age remains one of the strongest indicators of egg quality because chromosomal errors become more common as eggs get older.

Age Range What Usually Happens to Fertility What It Means Practically
20s Fertility is generally at its strongest Most healthy couples have a good chance of conceiving naturally
Early 30s Fertility begins to decline gradually Many women still conceive naturally but time may matter more
35 to 37 The decline becomes more noticeable Earlier fertility assessment may be advised if pregnancy does not happen
38 to 40 Egg quantity and quality often decline more sharply Specialist support may be helpful sooner
Over 40 Natural conception is still possible but less likely IVF success using own eggs is lower and miscarriage risk is higher

IVF Success Rates by Age

IVF can be life-changing for many people, but it does not remove age from the equation. IVF success rates are strongly linked to the age of the eggs being used.

When a woman uses her own eggs, success rates generally decline with age. Donor egg IVF is different because success is more closely linked to the age of the egg donor.

ALSO READ: What it’s like to be an egg donor in South Africa: “I donated my eggs to help a woman start a family”

Female Age IVF Live Birth Rate Per Cycle Start Using Own Eggs General Meaning
Under 35 About 39.4% Highest average success rate using own eggs
35 to 37 About 31.0% Success remains possible but begins to decline
38 to 40 About 21.3% Egg quality becomes a bigger limiting factor
41 to 42 About 11.3% Chances are lower and treatment may take longer
Over 42 About 3.7% Own-egg IVF success is much lower on average

These figures are averages from large fertility registries and should not be used to predict one person’s exact outcome. Fertility history, sperm quality, embryo quality, health conditions and clinic protocols can all affect results.

Age, Eggs and Fertility: What Science Says

Miscarriage Risk and Age

Miscarriage can happen at any age, but the risk rises as egg age increases. This is mainly because chromosomal abnormalities become more common in eggs and embryos over time.

A miscarriage is not usually caused by something a person did wrong. In many cases, it happens because the embryo was not developing normally from the start.

This is one of the reasons fertility specialists often discuss both pregnancy chances and live birth chances. Getting pregnant is one step. Carrying the pregnancy successfully is another.

TAKE A LOOK AT: Myths about miscarriages

Male Age and Fertility

Fertility is often framed as a women’s issue, but male factors contribute to many infertility cases, according to Cape Fertility. Sperm count, movement, shape and DNA quality can all affect the chance of conception.

Male fertility usually declines more slowly than female fertility, but age still matters. Research links older paternal age with changes in sperm quality and a higher risk of miscarriage in some studies. The effect is usually less sudden than the female age effect, but it should not be ignored.

For couples struggling to conceive, the Cleveland Clinic says that a semen analysis is an important early test. It is simple, useful and can prevent months of guessing.

CHECK OUT: Causes of male infertility & how to treat them

Common Fertility Myths About Age

One common myth is that fertility “falls off a cliff” at 35. That is not accurate according to the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. The decline starts earlier and happens gradually, but it becomes more clinically important after 35.

Another myth is that regular periods mean fertility is fine. Regular cycles are reassuring, but they do not prove egg quality is unchanged.

A third myth is that IVF can fix age-related infertility. IVF can improve chances for many people, but it cannot fully reverse age-related changes in egg quality, as stated by Dr Klein on Extend Fertility.

It is also a myth that male age does not matter. It may not affect fertility in the same way as female age, but sperm quality and DNA integrity can change over time, says Theresa Larkin, Associate Professor of Medical Sciences, University of Wollongong.

When to Seek Fertility Help

Guidelines commonly recommend seeking medical advice after 12 months of regular unprotected sex if the woman is under 35. If she is 35 or older, it is usually advised to seek help after 6 months. If she is over 40 or there are known health concerns such as irregular periods, endometriosis, PCOS, previous pelvic infection or known sperm issues, earlier assessment is sensible.

In South Africa, access to fertility treatment can be expensive, so early information can help couples plan realistically. A basic fertility work-up may include ovulation assessment, semen analysis, ultrasound, ovarian reserve testing and checks for tubal or uterine factors.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Fertility is individual and can be affected by age, medical history, hormones, sperm quality, lifestyle and underlying health conditions. Anyone concerned about infertility should speak to a qualified doctor, gynaecologist or fertility specialist.

References

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New programme uses DNA testing to address the root cause of infertility - Baby Yum Yum
PregnancyFertility & TreatmentsInfertility

New programme uses DNA testing to address the root cause of infertility

by BabyYumYum (Supplied)
written by BabyYumYum (Supplied)

Are you battling to conceive? A new programme, Supreme Fertility uses DNA testing to address the root cause of couples struggling to conceive. This, together with consultations with experts, lifestyle guidance and supplementation help couples to become the healthiest that they can be in order to fall pregnant naturally.

A staggering 50% of infertility cases are caused by genetic issues which is why, instead of generalised treatment, Supreme Fertility will do DNA tests on couples to find out more about their genetic makeup and ability to conceive. With DNA as a starting point, doctors are swiftly able to identify possible genetic weaknesses and biological challenges and prescribe a course of treatment using this valuable information.

Supreme Fertility provides an affordable six-month programme, including DNA testing for both partners with unexplained infertility, with a personal or family history of infertility and/or miscarriages, and when physical causes of infertility have been excluded, or before trying in vitro fertilization (IVF). The ideal time to do this is preconception, to ensure the optimal health of both parents.

 

Supreme Fertility equips patients with an understanding of infertility linked to female factors such as recurrent miscarriages, implantation failure, and the potential genetic causes of these, such as disrupted circadian rhythms, retaining heavy metals, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids and more. By providing a list of screenings, one is able to determine if any of these are evident. In this way, further obstacles to falling pregnant are eliminated.

For males, genes can shed light on why they may experience low sperm motility, low sperm count, sperm DNA damage or hormonal imbalances. The programme also provides suggested solutions to help manage or overcome these.

Supreme Fertility builds on exactly that and enables both the mother and father to improve their health and well-being in order to increase their chances of natural conception. The programme includes lifestyle guidance and supplementation for both potential parents in order to help them conceive. Many over-the-counter vitamins can greatly benefit the process if taken from the onset of trying to conceive. A specific set is recommended.

“With DNA as a starting point, doctors are swiftly able to identify possible genetic weaknesses and biological challenges, and prescribe a course of treatment, using this valuable information.”

Prenatal vitamins almost always include folic acid, an essential nutrient that helps prevent devastating birth defects. However, what is not so well known is that approximately 50% of individuals’ bodies are unable to convert folic acid into folate, the form needed for it to be effective. Supreme Fertility has launched a folate supplement to address this vital concern. This is merely one example of the solutions proposed by the programme.

Because eating is such an important part of equipping the body with the strength to conceive, recommendations of what to eat and what to avoid eating is included for both him and her. This programme not only suggests what to eat, and what not to eat but also makes recommendations about individual micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) to ensure that the body has what it needs.

Lifestyle changes such as the use of cell phones, laptops, air filtration, stress levels and an optimal BMI (body mass index) are recommended as part of this unique programme. Additionally, a recommended detoxification of one’s house, food and personal care products as well as what to look out for on labels, are included. And while the adage “self-care” is often used loosely, Supreme Fertility specifies and emphasises the importance of this in specific ways.

Supreme Fertility is available through doctors and dieticians. Visit www.supremefertility.co.za for a list of registered practitioners, or to find out more today.

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How I Lost 4kg in Two Weeks – You Can Too!
Health & Wellness

How I Lost 4kg in Two Weeks With My DNA Analysis – You Can Too!

by Amanda Rogaly, Founder of BabyYumYum Parenting Portal
written by Amanda Rogaly, Founder of BabyYumYum Parenting Portal

How I lost 4kg based on my DNA in two weeks – you can too! Losing weight can feel like a daunting task, but in just two weeks, I was able to shed 4kg and feel better than ever. It wasn’t about extreme diets or intense exercise routines - it was about making small, sustainable changes. In this post, I’ll share the practical steps I took to lose those 4kg, and how you can easily apply them to your own life. Losing weight doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming, and I’m here to show you how simple changes can lead to big results. By Amanda Rogaly, founder and chief mommy of BabyYumYum.

Fad diets? Not a chance! After my first child at age 31, it took about eight months to lose all 32 kilos of pregnancy weight, but just as I started feeling good about my body again, number two arrived…

Over the following nine months I gained back the 32 kilos, but in the back of my mind I thought “It’s cool, I’ve got this.” I was confident I would lose it all in another eight months and while this was true, it took double the effort and focus and more dedication to diet and exercise. Age is a proper b*tch! Who knew that your metabolism seems to slow down with age?

Fast forward to 2.5 years after my second child and keeping those kilos off has been really difficult, but age has taught me to learn more about my body and what it responds to. This not just from a weight-loss point of view, but also holistically when it comes to the effects of certain medications, my fitness and endurance, and how my skin and hair react to certain things.

Although I can get caught up in the latest health “trends”, I’ve always thought that dieticians and sports trainers give me cut-and-paste eating and exercise plans (which they change marginally for each client). They then hope that I stick to their instructions for the desired outcomes and, if that doesn’t work, they simply “adjust” the plan and have me try again. This can take a lot of time resulting in frustration and loss of motivation on my part. It is no surprise then that when I was told years ago about weight loss and lifestyle changes that can be achieved through DNA testing, I thought it was just another expensive gimmick with a clever marketing spin that would soon be a distant memory. I had no idea the value that DNA testing would bring to the medical, sporting and wellness communities, let alone to a mere mortal mommy like me.

I was recently presented with a DNA swab test, which made me feel like I was a suspect in a CSI case. All I had to do was stick this long cotton bud into my mouth and rub the inside of my check, stick it back into the presentation vial and then complete a form with my personal information.

The benefits of this method include:

  • Not having to make an appointment to see a professional to do the test.
  • No needles or blood.
  • User-friendly and no degree in science required to operate.
  • You can choose your preferred professional practitioner to help you analyse the results.

The swab sample was then collected and sent to a high-tech lab to work their magic and generate a report on me and my potential perfect self, based on my DNA. After just this one swab, I was in for an entire thesis on the Perfect Me, rather than my anticipated two-page summary, as my DNA was used in six different tests. The basis of each test is that it identifies unique DNA sequences in some of your genes and qualitatively assesses particular areas of intervention for optimisation.

“Having all this personalised information is helping me move towards being “practically perfect in every way”

The tests performed were:

  1. DNA Diet for weight management using lifestyle and diet recommendations

This for me was the biggest lifestyle changer, as the recommendation was to follow a low-carb diet (yes, that means cutting down on all the yummy foods, but not eliminating them altogether!) Together with the DNAlysis health professional, we looked at the foods I should include in or cut down on in my diet, which would work together with all the other factors analysed including absorption and metabolism, energy homeostasis, carbohydrate responsiveness, fat metabolism, energy responsiveness, circadian rhythms, fat storage and inflammation and what priority should be given to each of these areas.

This test was also able to confirm for me things such as how much of a sweet tooth do I have, my obesity risk as well as my propensity for snacking – all of which impact my weight-management goals.

This test also recommended the amount and intensity of weekly exercise ideal to support my weight-loss journey.

My Perfect Me: My outcome after just two weeks: A total loss of 4kgs with a continued motivation and continuous “high” from feeling good and exercise-induced endorphins.

  1. DNA Sport to fulfil your athletic potential

This report looks at different biological areas that relate to sporting performance and how you can use these to individualise your exercise programme and optimise your athletic performance. The results summary offered me a clear picture of my risk of injury, my recovery rate, power/strength potential, endurance potential, caffeine metabolism, sleep requirements, salt sensitivity and peak training time (morning or evening).

Recommendations were made on the findings, allowing me to be the best me that I can be and take my training to another level by adjusting my training schedule, times and intensities. I also gained a better understanding of my blood flow and respiration, energy during exercise, fuel during exercise and musculoskeletal properties. My DNA results even revealed customised zone training. As a casual runner, these results are significant but can shave seconds off a winning time for serious athletes or professionals.

My Perfect Me: I have changed my routine to high-intensity exercising in the mornings two to three days a week, as opposed to every day at a moderate intensity.

  1. mygeneRx report

By far the most complex and “scientific” report, this study looks at how your genes, and in turn your body and mind, respond to your current medications – and if the efficacy is reduced or toxicity increased. In other words, should your medication dosage be increased or decreased, or a particular medication be changed for another one in the same group?

My Perfect Me: I am looking forward to meeting with my healthcare provider in the next week to discuss changing certain medications I am using to positively contribute to the Perfect Me.

  1. DNA health

This test analyses your genes to determine your risks of developing certain chronic disease conditions focusing on bone health, detoxification, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, lactose intolerance, hypertension and other life-threatening diseases, as well as diet and lifestyle recommendations.

My Perfect Me: The results of this test have really just made me more aware of the signs I need to look out for considering my predisposition for certain medical conditions/illnesses. I love this because knowledge is power!

  1. DNA Oestrogen

This test allows for understanding of the oestrogen in my body and the impact or lack thereof on my future self. Some diseases that occur in later life are always pushed to the back of the mind when you’re young, but it is good to get a glimpse of what future could potentially bring you (and how you can manage or prevent this from happening). I do feel less stressed and more “prepared” for any health risk, knowing that I will have done everything in my power to reduce illnesses such as breast and ovarian cancer, as well as deep vein thrombosis through effective medication, diet and lifestyle choices.

  1. DNA Skin

We all have some degree of concern about our skin and ageing, and this test gives you an in-depth review into your collagen formation, inflammation and the need for protection from the sun and UV exposure, as well as oxidative (environmental) stress.

My Perfect Me: I have fair skin and am very strict about applying daily sun protection before leaving the house. This was echoed in my results indicating my sun sensitivities and pigmentation. I also learned that my recovery from oxidative stresses (cigarette smoke, etc.) is very slow and that I should focus on staying away from these factors.

Having all this personalised information is helping me move towards being “practically perfect in every way”, as Mary Poppins would say, and allows me to travel my life path with clear road markings and indications of speed humps and sharp cliffs. I’m done with fads and scrounging around in the dark. I know myself better now and I am an #EmpoweredMommy!

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