Paternity DNA testing: Establishing identity of biological father

Paternity test- DNA Paternity test

DNA testing

Paternity test decisively establishes the identity of biological father of a child in case the mother had multiple partners. It paves for emotional and financial support for child, while providing peace of mind to all concerned.
Importance of establishing paternity
The outcome of DNA testing has significant bearing on the child’s ability to enjoy rights. The child qualifies to draw the legal and social benefits like inheritance, social security etc. The child’s medical history is accurately mapped which is of enormous assistance to healthcare provider entrusted with the management of child’s health. The emotional bond shared by child and father is reinforced by the result of paternity test.

Paternity testing types
• Postnatal DNA tests, wherein the genetic profile of alleged father is matched with that of child’s. Sources of DNA can be blood sample, cheek cell collected through buccal swab, and umbilical cord.
• Prenatal DNA testing, wherein the dna paternity test is done while the child is still in mother’s womb. Amniocentesis test can be carried out during pregnancy’s 14th to 20th week. A thin needle is guided in the mother’s womb through ultrasound via her abdomen. Small quantity of amniotic fluid is drawn out for test. Little risk of miscarriage, leakage of amniotic fluid, cramping and vaginal bleeding exists. Chorionic Villus Sampling is another test wherein chorionic villus is collected by a needle penetrated through vagina and cervix and guided by ultrasound. The tissues adhering to uterus wall are tested. This test is conducted anywhere between 10th to 13th week of pregnancy.
• SNP Microarray is a non-invasive form of paternity testing which stresses on reservation and consequent analysis of child’s DNA naturally occurring in mother’s bloodstream.

Cost of test
The cost of conducting tests will be based on the kind of procedure adopted. Ideally, it hovers between $400-2000. Prenatal paternity testing is costlier than postnatal test owing to the expenses incurred in hiring additional doctor and paying for hospital fees. The credentials of labs offering cheap dna testing should be checked discerningly to know if the results can be upheld in a court of law. SNP microarray procedure comes with a price tag of around $1,600.
Other important information
DNA test kits of accredited labs should only be used. All top notch labs keep the outcome of paternity test absolutely confidential. However, the policies may vary from lab to lab.
Law of the land mandates establishing the identity of biological father to fully protect the rights of the child. The alleged father may be denied visitation by the mother on the ground that his biological identity has not been established.
The test can be helpful in bringing together family members who have been separated through any catastrophe. The genes will always present the true picture and the outcome of genetic test can be utilized to obtain visa for immigration reasons.
You cannot deny the positive impact paternity testing has in fostering healthy relationship between father and child, one that inspires mutual respect, love and trust. cheap paternity test should be optimally used to erase any doubts regarding the identity of biological father.