With paternity testing becoming more common in today's society, many people have questions surrounding it. In this blog post, we’ll be addressing a few of the most frequently asked questions regarding this practice.

What exactly is paternity testing?

Paternity testing is a scientific process that compares the DNA of a child and an alleged father to determine if they share a biological relationship. This test is done using a sample of DNA from both the child and the alleged father, which is analyzed to look for similarities.

How is paternity testing done?

The most common method of collecting DNA for paternity testing is through a cheek swab. A cotton swab is rubbed on the inside of the cheek to collect cells that contain DNA. Once the samples are collected, they are sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will compare the DNA of the child and the alleged father to determine whether they share a biological relationship.

How accurate is paternity testing?

Paternity testing is highly accurate when performed by a reputable laboratory. The accuracy of the test depends on the number and quality of DNA markers tested. Most paternity tests use 16 markers, which can provide a probability of paternity of 99.99% or higher.

What if the alleged father is not available for testing?

If the alleged father is not available for testing, other relatives such as grandparents, siblings, or aunts/uncles may be tested to determine paternity indirectly. However, indirect testing is not as accurate as direct testing with the alleged father's DNA sample.

Is paternity testing invasive?

No, paternity testing is not invasive. The most common method of collecting DNA samples is through a cheek swab, which is painless and non-invasive.

When should I get a paternity test?

There are many reasons why someone may want to get a paternity test, including:

• Resolving legal issues related to child support or custody

• Confirming a biological relationship for immigration purposes

• Identifying biological family members for medical reasons

• Resolving personal doubts about paternity

How long does it take to get results?

ARCpoint Labs of Woburn provides a reliable and quick testing process that is efficient, and yields results typically within 2-3 business days.

How do I choose a reputable laboratory for paternity testing?

When choosing a laboratory for paternity testing, it's important to look for accreditation from reputable organizations such as the AABB (American Association of Blood Banks). Additionally, you may want to consider the laboratory's turnaround time, cost, and customer service in order to ensure you are making the decision that best accommodates your needs.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact our office and we will be happy to assist you. If you are interested in our DNA testing services click HERE to schedule your appointment today at ARCpoint Labs of Woburn!

ARCpoint Labs of Woburn provides services to many nearby communities including Greater Boston, Burlington, Lexington, Waltham, Stoneham, Reading, Wilmington, Winchester, Wakefield, Arlington and Medford.