Prenatal Paternity Testing

Life is full of ups, downs and surprises. Finding out that you are pregnant is one of those surprises that happen to so many women all over the world, each and every day. Life is also often complicated, so sometimes, once the reality has set in, a woman or a couple want to know the paternity of their unborn child.

Of course, a paternity test can be undertaken after the child has been born, but it is not unusual for some people to want to confirm the father of a child prior to its’ birth.

So comes the question, can I take a DNA test while being pregnant?

There are a number of methods used to test the paternity of a child before it has been born, some are invasive, meaning that DNA samples are collected directly from the womb, and some are non-invasive, offering no risk to the mother or the unborn child.

Invasive DNA Testing

There are two main types of DNA paternity testing that are considered to be invasive. They are commonly known as Amniocentesis, and Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS).

During an amniocentesis, DNA is collected from the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby, and during a CVS, the DNA is taken from the chorionic villi, located in the wall of the womb. These types of DNA test are considered to carry a high risk, as the DNA sample is taken in close proximity to the unborn child

These tests are undertaken by a medical specialist, and involve the extraction of foetal DNA directly from the womb. Amniocentesis and CVS are often carried out to determine if the child will have any number of genetic conditions, including Down Syndrome or Cystic Fibrosis.

Non-invasive DNA Testing

For those wanting a gentler, less risky method of testing the paternity of an unborn child, Total DNA Services offers a totally non-invasive prenatal paternity test.

Extracting DNA from a maternal blood sample carries far less risks than either of the invasive paternity testing methods. All that is required is a DNA sample from the mother, and at least one potential father.

This can be done by simply providing a blood sample from the mother, accompanied by a DNA sample from at least one potential father by way of blood, a saliva mouth swab, or nail clippings.

The paternity of your unborn child does not have to be a mystery for 9 months. Accurate results are achievable, non-invasive, and provide peace of mind for all involved. 

It should be noted that there is an additional cost for the testing of more than one potential father.

Please see our range of Paternity Tests Here