DNA Paternity Tests: Everything You Need to Know

When a family’s future depends on the outcome of a DNA paternity test, it can be a very stressful time. You need confidence in the testing laboratory and in the accuracy of the test. So let’s take a look at exactly how they work, how to have the test, who can have the test, and how reliable they are. With this knowledge comes some measure of peace and power over a stressful situation.

How Does a Paternity DNA Test Work?

DNA paternity tests determine whether or not a particular child is the biological offspring of a particular man by collecting a small fluid or tissue sample from the potential biological father and from the child. These samples are evaluated determining, or ruling out, paternity. 

Since each parent contributes 50% of her/his DNA to the child, that child’s DNA is made up of only the parents’ DNA in equal parts. This is how the paternity test can prove or disprove a specific man’s paternity of that child. 

Can a DNA test be done with just the father and child?

The mother does not need to be tested and the comparison of the potential biological father with the child is all that is needed.

Though you can use a blood sample, the most common method of obtaining a sample is with a cheek swab. Since DNA is present in almost all of the cells in our body, a small sample is easily and painlessly gathered from the cheek cells, known as buccal cells.  A swab, which looks like a large Q Tip, is gently swiped along the inside of the cheek to pick up skin cells. The cells from the possible father and the child are examined and compared. Here at Blue Star Diagnostics, our lab will have accurate results for you within days.

How accurate is a DNA paternity test?

DNA testing is remarkably accurate and is the preeminent testing method in use for determining paternity. DNA paternity tests have 99.9% accuracy to prove biological fatherhood and can exclude an individual with 100% accuracy. 

Can DNA paternity tests be wrong? 

With this degree of reliability, DNA paternity tests only deliver wrong results, more accurately called a “false positive”, for one out of every one thousand tests. Using an unreliable method it’s feasible that a biological relative of the actual father could pass as positive on a subpar DNA test.  If two brothers are identical twins, it is not possible to establish which man is the biological father because their DNA profiles are identical.

The 99.9% accuracy rates from laboratory tests like ours provide the confirmation you need, so it is an obvious choice to go with an excellent, tested laboratory like ours to be sure of the results. 

Ready for Your DNA Paternity Test?

It is normal to feel anxious and concerned about this important test which. That is why using a respected, credentialed laboratory like Blue Star Diagnostics can relieve that worry. With our proven systems and extraordinary diligence you can be confident in the results you receive from Blue Star Diagnostics. Contact us now to get all the information you need and get started on getting the results you need. You can reach us at (469) 656-7999.