DNA Paternity Test: Definition & Types - ARCpoint Labs of Cincinnati East
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DNA Paternity Test: Definition & Types

by | Dec 24, 2023 | Uncategorized

There are many reasons for wanting a DNA paternity test. Luckily, determining paternity is a process that’s quick, easy, and nearly 100% accurate. Let’s look at DNA paternity tests and how you can get one at ARCpoint Labs.

What is a DNA Paternity Test, and Who Needs Them?

DNA – or deoxyribonucleic acid – is the genetic material you get from your biological mother and father. A DNA paternity test uses a sample of a male’s DNA to determine whether he’s the biological father of a child.

Types of Paternity Tests

There are two types of paternity tests that are available to patients. Legal paternity tests are appropriate when you’re looking to establish or disprove paternity in a court of law or for an immigration application. These legal paternity tests must take place in a medical setting.

On the other hand, at-home tests are perfect for people who are curious about paternity and would like results for peace of mind. These paternity kits can be ordered online or purchased at your local drugstore.

Benefits of Establishing Paternity

When determining paternity, there are tremendous benefits to the mother, father, and child. Some of these benefits include:

  • Ensuring legal rights to child support, Social Security benefits, and insurance
  • Easing the parenting burden on the mother
  • Legal parenting rights for the father
  • Identifying links to genetic conditions that can affect the child
  • Peace of mind for the mom, dad, and child

Overall, a paternity test benefits the child most, as it provides familial transparency and clarity.

How is a DNA Paternity Test Performed and Confirmed?

DNA tests are easy to perform, and results are nearly 100% accurate. Two types of paternity tests are commonly performed, specifically blood tests and cheek swabs.

A blood test requires the potential father and child to provide blood samples in a medical setting. The blood samples are then sent to a lab for analysis. On the other hand, a cheek swab can be performed at home. During this test, the potential father and child use cotton swabs to take a sample of buccal – or cheek – cells from the inside of their cheeks. The swabs are then mailed to a lab. This procedure can also be performed in a medical setting.

Can a Test Determine Paternity During Pregnancy?

Three different methods can determine the paternity of a baby before it’s born, and the results are as accurate as the tests when performed after birth. These tests include:

  1. Non-invasive prenatal paternity test (NIPP)
  2. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
  3. Amniocentesis

NIPP and CVS tests are usually performed during the first trimester, while amniocentesis is typically performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. Some testing may increase the risk of miscarriage, so it’s important to discuss your options with your physician and obstetrician before you make a decision.

Legal DNA Testing in Cincinnati

At ARCpoint Labs of Cincinnati, we offer DNA testing that can be used for legal and judicial purposes. Our legal DNA tests can accurately and reliably prove and disprove paternity to assist in cases involving child custody, divorce proceedings, and child visitation rights. These tests are extremely important to ensure that the father, mother, and child receive the benefits available to them as biological relatives.

Reliable DNA Paternity Testing at ARCpoint Labs of Cincinnati

Determining paternity can greatly benefit a mother, father, and child in a number of ways, and it’s very easy to obtain. At ARCpoint Labs of Cincinnati, we offer DNA paternity tests to help you with legal proceedings and offer peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule an appointment if you’re interested in getting a DNA test.

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