content top

Tips and Advice on DNA Paternity Testing

by Ray Lam

When doing a genetic DNA paternity testing procedure, the sample comes from the mother, father and child. The mother’s sample may not be mandatory, but without it, the procedure becomes more intense with the analysis of the DNA. Baby’s need to have a mouth swab if a blood sample from the umbilical was not obtained at birth. If you need results before the birth of the child, you can have amniotic fluid tested during the pregnancy.

If two or more of the same family members need testing to determine paternity, all of them are tested along with the mother and the child. This does require more intense testing and will rule out the family members until one person shows results as the father. If testing for a decreased or missing mother or father, you can use the DNA samples from other family member to determine paternity.

Testing DNA subjects the samples to a battery of at least sixteen DNA markers. These markers provide genetic profiles for each of the persons being tested. The child’s DNA profile is then compared with the profiles of both the mother and the supposed father to confirm whether or not the child has indeed inherited half of the genes of the alleged father. Statistical analysis using specific computer programs to calculate the possibility of paternity is then used to establish the possibility of the parentage.

More reports show that genetic DNA paternity testing takes the lead in genetic testing then any other reason. This results from court ordered support, which a man can request a paternity test to prove he is or is not the father. Genetic DNA testing also may show any underlying problems that may be hereditary. When a mother questions the paternity of the father, she also may not know of any of these problems, which could become serious if not known.

Although paternity DNA testing is quite accurate, it is never possible to prove 100% that a man is definitely the biological father of a child, as it might be remotely possible that another man may have the same DNA profiling as that of the child. Most paternity DNA testing requires utmost security and confidentiality. One should also ensure that all the specimens collected for analysis should be collected according to the regulations, which require photo identification of all people providing blood samples, specifications for labeling and sealing of sample containers, and maintaining confidentiality of the case details, including names, addresses and results. One should also ensure that the DNA testing centers store all samples and case files in a secure area with tightly controlled access.

About the Author:


Leave a Reply