DNA paternity testing is an essential tool for establishing or refuting a biological parent-child connection. The test examines the data from each person’s DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) profile to see whether there is a genetic match. Genetic compatibility between the kid and possible non-gestational parent determines who the child’s biological parent is. They are disqualified from being the biological parent if the data does not match. Blood or saliva samples from the kid and the non-gestational parent might be used in paternity testing. The tests are almost entirely correct.
Application of DNA Paternity Tests
There are many situations when a paternity test may be helpful. A court in matters of child custody and maintenance may sometimes require them. They may also help with getting the proper paperwork for a birth record.
Additional applications for paternity testing include:
- Establishing benefits for veterans, social security, and inheritance
- Information about health
- Enhancing the relationship between a kid and a parent who is not pregnant
Paternity DNA Testing Types
Prenatal (during pregnancy) or postnatal DNA paternity testing are also possible (after birth). Suppose the test is carried out after the baby is delivered. In that case, blood samples or cheek swabs are collected from the newborn and the suspected non-gestational parent and examined in a laboratory. There are numerous techniques to get DNA samples during pregnancy.
- Prenatal Paternity Test Without Pain (NIPP)
A blood sample from the pregnant woman is collected to examine fetal DNA. Then, it is contrasted with saliva taken from a probable non-gestational parent. As early as six weeks may be used for NIPP. It is almost entirely true.
- Samples of Chorionic Villus (CVS)
Chorionic villus sampling often assesses the fetus’s health, but the sample may also be used to establish paternity. Between 10 and 12 weeks of pregnancy, a tiny sample of placental tissue is taken for the test by passing it via the pregnant woman’s abdomen or cervix.
A cell sample from the prospective non-gestational parent is then compared to that sample.
- Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis, like CVS, is carried out to assess the fetus’s health. Since it is invasive, it may only be used to establish paternity if the test is already carried out for another purpose. A large needle is inserted into the abdomen of a pregnant woman during amniocentesis to remove the amniotic fluid. The fluid is then contrasted with samples from the possible non-gestational parent and the gestational parent. It usually takes 15 to 20 weeks to complete. 5
How to Pick a Testing Firm
If you need a legal paternity test, you must go to the location the court has designated. Results of the court-ordered tests may be utilized in proceedings, such as child support.
There are non-legal paternity tests available if you don’t need to establish parentage for legal reasons. These tests may be purchased at pharmacies or online. You may get samples from over-the-counter testing in the comfort of your home. 6 The lab expenses are not included in the retail purchase price. However, they are among the most affordable DNA paternity tests available.
- Courts do not accept testing performed at home or a private medical institution that the court has not authorized.
- Specific supporting paperwork for paternity testing must be included.
- The American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) website lists approved relationship testing facilities.
When Will The Test Findings Be Ready?
Lab findings sometimes take several days to get back. Remember to factor in the time it takes for the lab to perform the tests and get the sample. Results might take two days or longer to be available. Some companies provide same-day or one-day results in exchange for a price. Several DNA testing facilities release findings on a secure website for quicker access.
A DNA paternity test may reveal the truth when the father of a child is in doubt. You may pick the most appropriate testing approach with the assistance of your healthcare practitioner. Make sure the laboratory is certified for a court ordered DNA test by the American Association of Blood Banks whether you utilize an at-home test or visit a doctor’s office (AABB). Facilities for relationship (DNA) testing that AAAB recognized must adhere to rigid requirements for testing and accuracy.
Cost Of Paternity Tests
A DNA paternity test might range in price. A court ordered paternity test in San Antonio TX typically costs $300 to $500, which often includes the price of sample collection. Paternity tests that are not required by law range in price from around $60 for the retail kit (which does not include the testing) to over $200, depending on extra services like expedited testing and delivery.
Results Of Paternity DNA Testing
After receiving your samples, most labs can typically process the findings in two to five days. If findings are required more quickly, such as adding a name to a birth certificate, other accelerated techniques are available to guarantee a quick response. Results from amniocentesis or CVS tests might take more time—possibly several weeks.
