DNA paternity tests are becoming more and more popular in the United Stated as well as in other parts of the world. There is a good reason for the surge in popularity too. After all, paternity tests can give you peace of mind and even strengthen the emotional bond between a father and a child.
Movies and films have also helped create awareness about DNA tests. Nevertheless, there remains a lot of mystery around the subject. As a result, people have developed certain perceptions about paternity tests; some of them true, others false. Here are 4 popular myths and the truths behind them.
1. Myth – Geneticists Use Hair Samples And Blood Samples To Perform Paternity Tests
While it is true that DNA tests can use both hair and blood samples, this is mainly a preserve of scientists. Geneticists mostly use samples collected from inside the subject’s cheek which they collect using a swab. Some other geneticists may also ask the subject to swish special mouthwash for some time then spit it into a container. Both of these processes are painless. However, participants are also required to sign consent forms for these two sample collection methods.
2. Myth – Paternity Test You Have To Wait For The Baby To Be Born
It is not true that a father has to wait until the baby is born to take a paternity test. In fact, geneticists have come up with a special test, called a prenatal paternity test. This test can help determine whether you are the baby’s father during pregnancy.
3. Myth – DNA Tests Are 100% Accurate
Most authoritative voices in genetics agree that DNA paternity tests have great accuracy; in fact, some would say it is close to 100%. DNA tests need to be interpreted to understand what they mean. This means that there is always the possibility, no matter how small, that an error might occur.
In paternity testing, for example, fathers have the option of choosing to test between 12 and 67 DNA markers. A 12-marker paternity test would, however, be less accurate than a 67-marker paternity test. What’s more, it is possible for a 12-marker DNA test to result in a false positive.
This is a complete fallacy. The fact is that testing companies/centers conduct paternity tests in absolute discretion and treat the results and samples with complete confidentiality. What’s more, testing companies require your consent before posting any of your results on the internet.