Nowadays, non-invasive prenatal paternity testing is possible thanks to the development of fetal DNA testing. A sample of maternal blood, which is now known to contain fetal DNA, cross-checked against DNA samples from all potential fathers is enough to help mothers safely and easily determine paternity.
Gone are the days where expecting mothers would have to endure the discomfort and potential risks of chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis to figure out this crucial information. As a result, fetal DNA testing has become immensely popular, with both men and women who are expecting a baby.
It may seem obvious at first why so many people opt for this procedure – but paternity testing can actually be quite controversial. It is important for us to understand why so many women and men see this as a necessary procedure, despite all the controversy.
The Benefit for Women:
Fetal DNA testing can determine who the biological father is before the child is born. Very often, women who conceive a child out of wedlock need this knowledge in order to establish a definite line of support from the biological father during her pregnancy. Without this information, determining who the father is will have to rely on circumstantial and oftentimes unverifiable information, which is detrimental to the mother, father, and baby.
The Benefit for Men:
For both the mother and father, knowing for sure is a definite benefit to fetal DNA testing. This eliminates all doubt and allows all parties to act with the fullest assurance. Most importantly, it allows everyone to carefully and confidently plan for the future of the child. The father can begin bonding with both the mother and the baby she is carrying without having to worry about paternity doubts.
Ultimately, fetal DNA testing has opened the doorway to allow for healthier and more honest familial relationships. Everyone benefits, especially the child, who can enjoy more support.
If you’re looking to get a prenatal paternity test and have more questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
