Top 5 Things to Know About DNA Paternity Testing
DNA Paternity testing involves comparing the DNA from two or more individuals to determine if they share a biological lineage. There are many different types of paternity DNA tests, sometimes also referred to as “relationship” DNA tests. Here are the top 5 most important things to know when it comes to selecting a DNA test and lab.
#1: Can the test be used for official or court purposes?
Yes, if you need a paternity test for official purposes, like custody, immigration or benefits, then you will need a legal, court-approved test. With legal paternity testing, the DNA collection process is performed by a 3rd party technician and a legal chain-of-custody form is completed. The lab performing the test also should be accredited by the Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB).
#2: How is the DNA collected?
Collecting a person’s DNA is a simple, quick and painless process. The technician uses a buccal swab to gently rub the inside of each person’s cheek for a few seconds. The buccal swab is then packaged and sent to the lab for testing.
#3: How long does the test take?
Test results usually take 2 to 3 days, although next day results are available if a short turnaround time is needed.
#4: How accurate are the results?
DNA paternity testing is 99.999% accurate. If you receive a legal test, the results can be used for official purposes including custody, immigration or benefits such as social security.
#5: Is the test only for a father & child?
No, there are many other types of relationship DNA test types. A siblingship test, for example, can determine if two siblings share the same parent. Another is a grandparent test, which can be performed is the father is not available. In this case, the test is done using the DNA of the paternal grandparents and their grandchild. Another special type of test is a non-invasive prenatal paternity test, which is done by comparing the fetal DNA in the mother’s blood with the cheek swab from the father.
At ARCpoint Labs of Woburn, you can be confident of receiving an accurate, confidential and rapid DNA paternity test. Click HERE to schedule your appointment today!
ARCpoint Labs of Woburn provides DNA paternity testing to many nearby communities including Burlington, Lexington, Waltham, Stoneham, Reading, Wilmington, Winchester, Wakefield, Arlington and Medford.
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