While lots of pregnancies are well-planned by two people, there are many thousands that aren’t. Unintended pregnancy rates in the U.S. are about 36 per every 1,000 women. And among these pregnancies are a few where paternity may be unknown or unconfirmed.
The next step might be a DNA paternity test, which can have medical, legal and financial considerations for the child.
If your baby’s father isn’t easily determined, it’s important to consider paternity testing. Here’s more about what this kind of testing is and when you can get one during pregnancy.
What is a DNA paternity test?
You probably know about DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that contains all of a person’s genetic substances. A baby in utero contains the DNA of both parents. DNA paternity testing uses cell material to determine who the biological father of a baby is.
Can I get a paternity test during pregnancy?
Yes, you can get a paternity test during pregnancy to learn who your baby’s father is.
How accurate are DNA paternity tests?
The accuracy rate of DNA paternity tests is very high — even up to 99.9%.[1]
When can I get a paternity test during pregnancy?
DNA paternity testing can occur at 9 to 12 weeks of pregnancy, and it can be included with other first trimester prenatal tests, like chorionic villus sampling (CVS). It can also be done later, during the second trimester, when an amnio is performed.
What are the different types of paternity tests?
Paternity tests during pregnancy may be performed in two ways, either noninvasively or along with more involved procedures that screen for genetic and other medical issues. Here’s more:
Noninvasive prenatal paternity test (NIPP). Quick and simple, a NIPP uses a blood sample from the expectant woman and a swipe from the inside of the possible father’s mouth. The baby’s DNA is in a woman’s bloodstream, which is then analyzed with the DNA that’s been gathered from the potential father’s cells located on the inner cheek.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS). This more invasive manner entails removing a bit of tissue from the placenta between weeks 10 and 13. While often very straightforward and safe, CVS is a bit uncomfortable and does include a very small risk of miscarriage.
Amniocentesis. A bit of amniotic fluid from the uterus is removed from the mother with a needle for this procedure. An amnio can occur between weeks 15 and 20, and while risks are rare, there is a very slight chance of miscarriage.
Keep in mind that these last two procedures aren’t typically done solely to determine a baby’s paternity. Instead, finding out the identity of your baby’s father is one data piece that can be gleaned from amnio and CVS, along with information about your fetus’ genetics, health and growth rate.
Why is finding out paternity important?
The importance of finding out a child’s paternity is considerable, as it offers a detailed health history from two people. A particular diagnosis or genetic condition may be found more accurately and quickly if both parents are known. And certain monetary benefits may be accrued by the unborn child, including financial support, custody, inheritance and Social Security.
Learning who both parents are also allows a child to form a better bond and get to know both sides of his family. Paternity gives a child a feeling of belonging and identity too.[2]
How is a DNA paternity test done?
DNA paternity testing may involve a simple blood draw from the mother and cheek swab from the possible father, or it could be determined when a woman opts for a more involved procedure, such as CVS or an amnio.
What does a paternity test cost?
If you need paternity testing in a hospital or doctor’s office, it’ll likely run to a few hundred dollars. Many insurance plans cover some or most of the cost of CVS and amniocentesis.
How is paternity confirmed?
In order for paternity to be confirmed, the swab contents and blood or fluids are sent to a lab for more testing. This step is called DNA sequencing, and it compares samples from both parents to form the baby’s own genetic profile. A match between the two can confirm paternity.
If you’re unsure of the identity of your baby’s father, know that prenatal paternity testing is possible. Speak with your doctor about the right method for you and your baby on board.
Yes 
No 
Trending On What to Expect
