Testing For Paternity – How Does It Work

Testing for paternity can be a very tough decision to make as the results can have a very deep affect upon the life of every father, mother and child. The whole issue not only has legal aspects to it but can also be quite emotional.

How does the test work? DNA is found in every cell and it helps in determining the actual father of the child as every DNA structure is unique in every human body. A child will carry the DNA sequence of each parent and this will help in evaluating the identity of the father. If the child has a similar DNA structure as his presumed father then with 99.9% certainty the fatherhood can be determined.

The child inherits DNA formation from both the parents, half from the father and other half from the mother. Testing for paternity can be stressful for the father, mother and the child hence the subject should be seriously thought through before making any decision.

When is it normally done? It can be done after or before the birth of the child. Though the processes of analysis are the same, the way of collecting the DNA differs. The sample is taken from the fetus. There is a small amount of risk involved for the baby. After the baby is born the DNA sample is taken by swabbing the cheek cells of the baby. The sample from the alleged father and the mother is taken in order to determe the results.

If you want to do the testing for paternity for your own satisfaction then you can buy a home testing kit. If you want to use the test results for legal purposes such as changing the name on the birth certificate or for filing child support then you have to go to a registered, authorized doctor to have the testing done.

Paternity testing can have a lot of implications and can even have adverse effects on your relationship. Before you take any action make sure to analyze the consequences. You can find the home DNA testing kit online and can order it immediately. Normally it takes a week’s time to get the results.

As a father if you have any questions you may want to submit yourself to testing for paternity. You may want to try legal paternity testing.