Paternity DNA testing - The myths

The field of genetic testing has grown immensely in the past three decades. It now spans over a myriad of tests and can provide results of outstanding accuracy. The paternity DNA test is just one of these tests and given its widespread demand, it is understandable that certain queries arise and certain myths still remain rooted in it. The following articles attempts to explain some of these myths and settles and doubts for those thinking of taking a paternity test.

How painful are blood samples and are they still used?

Essentially any doctor or psychologist would tactfully ridicule this idea. A little prick in the arm is unlikely to be excruciatingly painful. However, the sight of a needle, the bruising left after a blood draw, and the overall weakness some people feel after having blood taken are just some of the reasons not to use blood to carry out a DNA test. Today using saliva is recommended and is equally accurate. This involves using a mouth swab, which is a little stick with a tip made of Dacron (a material resembling cotton wool).

The paternity test can only be after the birth of the child

This is known as pre-natal paternity testing and can be carried out at the tenth week of pregnancy up until the twenty forth week. However, it is a very tedious process that is moreover, wrapped in ethical issues. The procedure for a DNA paternity test involves taking cell samples from the placenta or loose fetal cells. The entire procedure is carried out by a doctor and there is a chance of harming the unborn child. A number of DNA companies have scrapped offering the test for this reason. Moreover, any samples taken have to be analyzed within a strict time frame and should it exceed this time frame then the samples are useless. Ethical issues involve the problem of a parent not being happy with the result and thus, encouraging an abortion. This opens up a whole new world of debates on ethicality and morality. Companies offering alternative pre-natal testing methods claiming not to use the invasive sampling method as described above should be heavily scrutinized. These tests are likely not encouraged by the medical profession and have no scientific backing.

How confidential are paternity DNA tests?

Whether you opt for a home-kit for your paternity test, a legal paternity test or any other type of paternity testing, the company offering the test will have confidentiality as a top priority. However, once the results appear in court if one takes a legal paternity test, legal persons overseeing the case would need to see the results. Should you choose to do it at home using a home-kit, then it is entirely up to you who to disclose the results to. It is important to find companies with a sound reputation and the right accreditations. Paternity testing is a very sensitive issue and it can have devastating consequences and serious companies should have this issue at the forefront of their minds.

These DNA tests must take ages

Waiting for the results of these tests can be nerve-wrecking and create tensions. Most companies will make their clients wait as short as possible, thus, mitigating the stress involved in the wait. Today’s technology within the field of genetics means that results can be achieved and processed relatively quickly. Once the home DNA paternity kit is purchased, it is received within 5-7 working days, and then, depending on how long one takes to return the samples and where are on the globe, they will receive their results. The time frame for this whole process is small and the company you choose will clarify these issues.

If the father in not available, then what

If the father is not available for a DNA paternity test, another relative of the alleged father can be tested. This is known as avuncular DNA testing and usually is done taking DNA samples from the aunt, uncle or grandparents. The genetic profiles are analyzed and compared to those of the child. An avuncular index will establish the likelihood of two individuals being biologically related and the extent of this relationship.