Paternal tests during pregnancy are safer than ever now. Older technology required sampling for the baby to be obtained by amniocentesis. Now, a simple blood draw from the mom allows us to obtain both the mother and the child’s DNA. The DNA profiles are separated and compared to the alleged father’s DNA.
There are several reasons why a paternity test is taken while one is pregnant. It can be for legal matters such as child support and/or custody, to find out about genetic predisposition to illnesses or simply for peace of mind. Whatever the reason may be, you must carefully pick out the right kind of testing option that’ll fit your needs.
Why Should I Take a Pre-Natal Paternity Test?
The reason people get a paternity test is to determine the biological father of the baby. This is done by studying the genetic components of a baby and the father. Every person’s DNA is unique to their body and remains the same throughout their lifetime. While some get this test done simply for peace of mind, others get it done for legal and medical reasons.
The American Pregnancy Association suggests that paternity tests help improve the bond between a father and child. These tests also serve as a basis for establishing social and legal benefits such as social security and inheritance.
Paternity Testing while pregnant
There are a few options now available for prenatal paternity tests. First, it is advisable to wait until the mom is about 7 weeks pregnant (this helps ensure that there is a sufficient amount of the baby’s DNA circulating in the mom’s blood). Blood is drawn from the mother to obtain and separate the mother and child DNA profiles. In order to obtain the DNA from the alleged father, a simple cheek swab is done. Once all samples are received in the lab comparisons are completed to determine probability of paternity.
What Other Testing Options Do I Have?
- Amniocentesis: This next method is an invasive method that is mostly performed to detect any genetic disorders, neural tube defects, and other DNA abnormalities. In this process, a long thin needle is inserted into the abdomen to collect a sample of amniotic fluid from the uterus. The result from the testing is compared to that of the father giving 99% accurate results. This test can be done 14 to 20 weeks into the pregnancy.
However, there are small risks and side effects attached to this method of paternity testing. The side effects include cramping, vaginal bleeding, leaking of the amniotic fluid, or irritation around the insertion area. This method is done with utmost precision to avoid the chances of a miscarriage through premature birth, water breaking, or potential risk of infection.
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): A tube or needle with the help of ultrasound machines is used to collect the small tissues on the lining of the uterus called Chorionic Villi. These tissues have the same genetic makeup as that of the baby. The results are compared to that of the father, again with an accuracy rate of 99%.
This test may be carried out 10-13 weeks into the pregnancy, with 1 in every 100 pregnancies resulting in a miscarriage. The purpose of this risky procedure is to detect genetic disorders and chromosome abnormalities.
Cost
The cost of a paternity test can vary according to the procedure you decide on. You can ask more about the costs associated with these tests by giving us a call today at 888-712-9639.
Choose the Right One
Ensure you reach out to a reliable lab that does legally admissible DNA Testing at an affordable rate. Contact us at Health Link so we may help you explore your options for DNA testing and sample collections in different states.