Do you intend to conduct a DNA paternity test soon? Picking up a paternity test kit nowadays is as simple as visiting your local store or purchasing online at your preferred pharmacy chain, independent drugstore, or superstore.
The results of a paternity test are frequently life-changing, and you’re undoubtedly worried. Hence, you must do your research to ensure that you get the best test for your purposes and know how to perform it correctly.
What exactly is a DNA paternity test?
DNA is the genetic material you inherit from your parents. Paternity relates to fatherhood. By extracting DNA from a cheek swab, a DNA paternity test determines whether a man is the child’s biological father.
What are the different types of DNA paternity tests?
If you wish to establish or refute paternity for legal purposes, the test must be performed in a medical environment (a legal DNA paternity test). Alternatively, you can purchase a DNA paternity test kit online or at a drugstore to determine whether your child is paternal.
How does a DNA paternity test work?
There are two equally accurate methods for determining paternity:
- Blood Tests: An examination of blood samples is conducted in the medical office for the putative father and child. A laboratory examines the samples for the facility.
- Cheek Swabs: During cheek swabs, potential parents and kids test their buccal cells. A specific lab receives the cotton swab applicators. The samples are sent to a laboratory for testing if swabbing is done in a medical setting.
Tips to Follow During Paternity Testing
Tip #1: Select the Right Paternity Test
The paternity test kit you buy at the shop comes with three sets of special DNA-collection swabs: one for the kid, one for the putative father, and one for the mother. The lab charge indicated on the package’s exterior is solely for testing these three people.
Keep in mind that the cost of this sort of paternity testing is greater owing to the more comprehensive analysis required, and the participation of the child’s mother is strongly needed to obtain definitive findings. A direct paternity test is more cost-effective if the child’s father can participate.
Tip #2: Carefully Follow Kit Instructions
An at-home test kit for paternity includes instructions for swabbing and handling swabs before and after DNA collection. Take the time to properly read all instructions before swabbing to help reduce the possibility of sample contamination and/or delays due to improper collection.
Tip #3: Keep an eye on Each Other While Collecting DNA
During the swabbing, keep an eye on each other while completing the drop-off once the collection is complete. Following this straightforward procedure makes paternity fraud far less likely, and honesty is kept that way.
Even if you don’t intend to use the results in court, insist on receiving a witnessed test if participants are from different states or if there is any reason to think one of them could attempt to “cheat” the test. A neutral witness is worth the small additional cost.
Tip #4 Select an Accredited Lab
Pick a lab that upholds the highest standards of certification alone. This guarantees that your samples will be handled appropriately, examined, and evaluated by experts.
The Bottom Line
If you adhere to the following advice, you’ll be successful on the crucial paternity test:
- Choose the best test for your purposes.
- Follow all kit instructions.
- Keep an eye on each other as you gather DNA samples.
- Only use an accredited lab.
Author Bio:
Alison Lurie is a farmer of words in the field of creativity. She is an experienced independent content writer with a demonstrated history of working in the writing and editing industry. She is a multi-niche content chef who loves cooking new things.