Paternity testing is an important aspect. It is important for different reasons. This is done not just for medical reasons. You can prepare yourself mentally as well financially after the tests are done. There are lots of people who go in for this test. This test also helps in determining the biological father of the child.
Paternity testing from an accredited laboratory will cost you between $400.00 and $2,000.00. This also depends on the area in which you live in and the type of test that you choose. The American Pregnancy Association also recommends paternity testing and this testing facility has been accredited by the AABB (formerly American Association of Blood Banks) such as DNA Diagnostics Center. The results of the paternity tests are available to the patient in 5 business days or less.
There are two types of paternity testing. Those include
- Postnatal DNA testing and
- Prenatal DNA testing
Postnatal DNA testing: This is an important type of paternity. This involves DNA testing after the baby is born. The DNA test, in turn, includes testing blood samples, Buccal swab or cheek swab, Umbilical cord and testing other sample collection like semen, tissue, hair and others.
Prenatal DNA testing: This paternity testing is done before the birth of the child. There are two processes included within this.
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- Amniocentesis: This test is performed in the second trimester. This means the test is done within the 14th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. The doctor uses ultrasound to guide a thin needle into the uterus through the abdomen. The needle draws out a small amount of amniotic fluid, which is then tested. There is always a chance of harming the baby or even miscarriage. Other than this, it may also cause cramping, leaking of amniotic fluid, and vaginal bleeding. You should always take the permission of the doctor before going in for this test.
- Chorionic Villus Sampling: In this test the doctor will insert a thin needle or tube from the vagina, through the cervix and is guided by an ultrasound. This is done to obtain chorionic villi. Chorionic villi are little finger-like pieces of tissue attached to the wall of the uterus. These come from the same fertilized egg and have the same genetic makeup. This testing can be done between the 10th and the 13th weeks. You should take the doctor's permission before going in for this paternity testing.
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