Myths and Misconceptions About DNA Paternity Testing

Scientists discovered in the 1930s that blood typing contains some definitive clues to a person’s parentage. These days DNA testing is a common occurrence that can be done at most doctors’ offices. Many view DNA testing as a sensitive subject, which results in many misconceptions about the practice. 

There are still questions about how accurate a paternity test really is. Paternity tests are usually called for in highly stressful situations. Add that to the scientific nature of the topics, then it’s understandable that many people don’t know how it works.

So, keep reading to find out more about common myths and misconceptions about paternity testing.

DNA Testing Requires Spit or Blood

Your DNA sequence can be found in almost every cell in your body. So you have more options than just saliva or blood when it comes to a DNA paternity test.

Cheek swabs are a commonly used way to get DNA samples for a paternity test. A cotton swab is used to gently scrape the inside of your cheek. The epithelial cells on the swab are then used to extract your DNA.

A Paternity Test Is Risky

This is an age-old myth that still makes the rounds to this day. Many people also believe that you can only do DNA tests once the child is born. While post-birth paternity testing is the least expensive option, a prenatal paternity test is also an option.

These days non-invasive prenatal testing procedures make DNA paternity testing completely safe. Before this process was established, processes like Chorionic Villus Sampling were used to determine paternity. These processes did pose a small risk of miscarriage, but they are no longer used for DNA tests.

These days a blood sample from the mother that contains cell-free fetal DNA is all that’s needed. The potential father then submits a cheek swab for DNA paternity testing.

The Father Needs to Be Present

While having the father available while running paternity tests will make everything go faster, it isn’t the only option. With the advances in technology and a better understanding of DNA and genealogy, it’s possible to establish paternity using DNA samples from potential grandparents.

All Paternity Tests Are the Same

While the basic idea of all paternity tests is the same, the type of test you take can have some differences. When you’re testing the paternity of one child and two potential fathers, the only difference will really be that more DNA gets tested. The same process applies to this situation as one child and one perspective father.

The amount of fathers also isn’t the only thing that can change. Paternity tests aren’t limited to various potential fathers. You can also test the paternity of two children and one potential father.

There aren’t really any limits when it comes to the number of people you want to test, as long as you have access to their DNA. If you want to test various potential fathers for paternity then that’s your right. You can also test all your children individually against potential fathers.

A DNA Paternity Test Will Divide Families

When most people hear “paternity test,” they think of a scandal. But paternity tests have various uses. These tests can reunite families that have been estranged due to adoption, immigration, establishing genealogies, and more. 

Paternity tests are also often used to resolve child support issues or to determine familial ties in adoption cases.

If someone doubts the paternity of their own child it can drive the family apart. Emotional distance will slowly build up until one day you realize everyone is living separate lives. A paternity test can in some instances provide peace of mind and help everyone move forward.

This is why it’s important to prepare your family and everyone involved before a paternity test is performed. Paternity tests are sensitive and emotionally charged, so it’s definitely not something you want to spring on your family. Everyone needs time to process and get accustomed to the idea.

A paternity test on its own won’t divide a family, but the way it’s handled will make all the difference. Open conversations are necessary. If you try to hide it and it comes to light later it can cause heaps of stress that no one needs. 

DNA Paternity Tests Aren’t Really Accurate

Not only are DNA paternity tests extremely accurate, but they are accepted as irrefutable proof in a court of law. If you’re wondering about at-home paternity test accuracy, then you simply need to make sure the tests are recognized by the Ministry of Justice, that way you can ensure the test you use is just as accurate as one done in a doctor’s office.

Testing Your DNA Makes It Public Information

One misconception many people have about DNA tests, in general, is that they think their information will become a matter of public record. This is far from the truth though!

When it comes to at-home paternity tests, your results are usually sent to you as a password-protected online link. You’re the only one that has access to this information, so as long as you don’t share the link and password it will stay private.

Genetic information is protected by federal laws, so only people you give access to can legally view your information.

You Get Results Fast

TV unfortunately makes it seem like DNA tests only take an hour or two before you have your results. Unfortunately, labs take time to work through all their orders.

Labs take their time to ensure they give you accurate results and follow all the necessary procedures. If they rushed your order they could make mistakes, so it’s actually better that it takes longer than expected.

In most cases, you’ll only get your results within two to three weeks, but each service has different delivery times. If you need to send your DNA in yourself, the service you use might add some time to the entire process.

Paternity Testing Myths and Misconceptions Debunked

A paternity test is a safe test that can accurately tell you the paternity of someone. You also don’t need to worry about at-home paternity test accuracy as they’re just as accurate as ones done by doctors. So go ahead and ensure you have peace of mind about the paternity of your child.

If you have any queries about our service, contact us today. At That DNA Company, we offer affordable, accurate, reliable, and confidential DNA paternity tests with no hidden costs.