DNA Paternity Testing

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Pre-Natal Paternity Test

Pre-natal paternity testing is performed before the birth of the child. The test is typically performed by analysing either a CVS sample or by using amniotic fluid. The patient would be required to independently arrange for collection of either CVS samples or amniocentesis. Once the hospital sends these samples to us we can proceed with the pre-natal paternity test.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is usually performed at a very early stage of pregnancy, generally around the 11th to 13th week of pregnancy. During the CVS procedure, a catheter is inserted through the cervix and a small sample is taken from the outside of the gestational sack by gentle suction. This sampling procedure allows the obstetrician to obtain a small amount of fetal chorionic villi (trophoblastic tissue), which is used for the pre-natal paternity test. Pre-natal paternity tests conducted using CVS samples are just as accurate as tests, which are performed after the child is born.

What should I expect after the CVS?

For the first couple of days you may experience some abdominal discomfort, period-like pain or a little bleeding. These are relatively common and in the vast majority of cases the pregnancy continues without any problems. You may find it helpful to take simple painkillers like paracetamol. If there is a lot of pain or bleeding or if you develop a temperature please seek medical advice.

Who performs the procedure?
The customer will have to contact their doctor or local medical centre for their nearest centre in which this type of DNA sample collection can be arranged. DNA Solutions does not perform DNA extraction from the unborn child - we can certainly analyse this at the same costs as a paternity test.

Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is generally performed at later stages of pregnancy. During an amniocentesis procedure, a small amount of amniotic fluid (10ml) is withdrawn transabdominally by your obstetrician. Amniotic fluid is also an excellent sample for paternity testing; paternity tests performed using amniotic fluid, are just as accurate as tests conducted after the child is born.

Whether you choose chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis, results are usually available 10 to 15 working days after specimen collection.

Risks

Although a DNA paternity test can be easily performed using either a chorionic villus sample or amniotic fluid, it should be noted that both procedures carry some risk to the fetus. Studies have indicated that the chances for fetal loss are increased by 0.5% for amniocentesis and 1% for chorionic villus sampling. We recommend strongly that you discuss all these issues with your doctor.