Modesto Paternity Test Centers - California

When there is a question of paternity in an unborn child, you may wish to have a prenatal paternity test performed in order to determine the actual father of the child. Just like a paternity test that is done after a pregnancy, the test will compare the DNA of the mother, the unborn baby and the supposed father in order to establish paternity. DNA comparisons have been performed since 1953, when it was discovered that we all have DNA and that there is a specific pattern for each individual.

Under a microscope, DNA looks very much like a ladder that has been twirled and twisted. It is composed of four base molecules. These are Adenine, Thymine, Guanine and Cytosine. These molecules bond with the sides of the DNA strand and are actually known as Hydrogen Bonds. Depending upon the way that these molecules are configured is what is responsible for the way we look, think and even act. These are hereditary traits. There are markers present from both parents' DNA and comparing the DNA of the mother and father with that of a child will determine if the father is the biological father or if he is not.

There are two different types of paternity tests which can be done before a child is born. They are both invasive and for this reason, there is a small risk associated with both procedures. This should be thoroughly discussed with your physician if you are considering it. The two types of prenatal paternity tests include Chorionic Villi Sampling or CVS and Amniocentesis. CVS is the test that physicians use to establish paternity when the mother is 10 to 13 weeks pregnant. The doctor extracts cells from the placenta which surrounds the fetus. An ultrasound is used to help the doctor retrieve the cells.

For Amniocentesis, a needle is inserted into the amniotic fluid around the baby and cells are collected in order to perform the test. An ultrasound is also used for this procedure. There are some medical risks that are associated with both forms of testing. They are invasive procedures, meaning that a foreign object is inserted into the body. Because of this, there is a risk of infection. There is also the risk with amniocentesis that the mother or child could be injured by the needle. Of course, you should be made aware of all of these risks by your physician.