How to Get a DNA Test

Being stuck in a scenario of questionable paternity can become a high stress situation. To avoid prolonging a stressful paternity situation, parents should consider DNA paternity testing. DNA paternity testing is designed to determine if a man and child share the same DNA. The man's DNA is analyzed and compared to that of a child to determine whether or not the man is, in fact, the child's father. Paternity testing is popular for women who had more than one sexual partner during the time the child was conceived.

DNA paternity tests are now available over the counter at the pharmacy. However, to ensure the reliability and authenticity of a DNA paternity tests, parents should consider using a professional paternity testing center. In order to get a paternity test, it's a good idea to first contact your doctor or the local authorities to get information on legitimate locations that offer paternity testing. If you're paternity test has been court order, the court system will provide you with a list of acceptable laboratory facilities.

The second step in paternity testing is to contact and organize the time of testing. In most cases, the mother, child, and the men that are suspected to be the father of the child will be required to visit the facility for testing. Legitimate DNA testing will typically require a blood draw from each of the participating individuals. However, some locations use a cotton swab on the inside of the cheek to determine DNA through saliva collection.

Once all of the participating individuals have been tested, laboratory officials will process the information to determine accurate paternity. DNA testing results are usually available within a week. There are some facilities that offer results within 24 hours. Most of the time, DNA tests are boasted at more than 99% accurate - It is important to note DNA paternity testing is considered to be 100% in terms of determining fatherhood.

If the results of a paternity test are surprising, or create some form of trauma between mother and child or the mother and her current partner, it's a good idea to seek the services of a professional counselor. Because DNA paternity testing can be surrounded by dramatic and stressful personal circumstances, consulting with professional counselors can help to ease any transition that takes place. In some situations, counseling is court ordered in paternity cases. If you're involved in a custody battle, consider asking your legal counsel for advice on DNA paternity testing for information on any counseling you wish to seek after the testing has been completed.