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IDENTIGENE is proud to be #1 Brand and Only DNA Paternity Test trusted by retailers like CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, and Walmart. With our history, it’s no wonder we’re the “first” name in DNA paternity testing!
Who’s your daddy? While usually used as a punch line, this question is actually more common than you might think. In fact, a recent survey found that one in five Americans said that they, or a close friend or family member have questioned paternity.
While the need for a paternity test is fairly high, there are a few common misconceptions around how getting tested works.
Myth: Asking for a paternity test will destroy my relationship with the man (or woman) involved.
While asking someone to participate in a paternity test can certainly create some tension in a relationship, facing your questions is the most responsible and caring decision for everyone involved. Approach the situation in a civil way by being honest and setting some ground rules for communicating throughout the testing process.
Myth: Taking a paternity test involves painful blood tests.
Thanks to today’s technology, no blood is needed! Identigene offers a DNA paternity test kit that is sold in drug stores and supercenters that collects DNA samples by a simple cheek swab. This makes taking a test easy and painless.
Myth: Determining paternity is impossible if the potential father is not able to take a test.
It is not uncommon that the possible father is either unavailable or unwilling to take a paternity test. In these cases, a paternal grandparent or brother or sister of the father in question can be tested to determine if the child is biologically related to that individual.
Myth: Paternity tests are not really accurate because my DNA can change over time.
When administered properly, a DNA paternity test is 100 percent accurate. Nothing can actually alter ones DNA; however, the DNA on the swab can become contaminated. Contamination can happen if the swab comes in contact with another person or object that has been touched by another person.
Myth: A matching blood type in the man and child proves that he is the father.
Blood type and DNA are very different. A DNA paternity test like the Identigene test analyzes the DNA, not the blood type, of those being tested. While the possible father and child may have the same blood type, their DNA may not match, meaning they are not genetically related.
*Blog written by Dr. Janet Taylor, IDENTIGENE Spokesperson and Community Psychiatrist.
<< SEE MORE MYTHS ABOUT PATERNITY TESTING
What do Thomas Jefferson, Elvis and Kourtney Kardashian have in common? They all have been involved in paternity scandals. Contrary to popular belief, questions surrounding the paternity of a child is nothing new. In fact, the issue has been around for centuries, tracing all the way back to the concept of determining paternity in Roman Laws.
While the actual practice of paternity testing is also not new, it has come a long way since the early explorations of testing. During the turn of the century, doctors performed paternity tests (largely inconclusive) by comparing blood types of the man, woman and child. By the mid-eighties, major advancements had been made and medical labs began examining DNA samples, which could determine paternity with greater than 99 percent certainty. Still, tests were expensive, not readily available to the public and had a long turnaround time.
Today, DNA test kits, like the IDENTIGENE DNA paternity test, are available at drug stores and super centers. We also have countless resources and counseling services now available to help those who find themselves in a situation where there is an unplanned pregnancy or questions about paternity. Society is responding to an ever-present need, and people with paternity questions can finally find support through tools like IDENTIGENE and national organizations, such as Fathers Incorporated.
Some may criticize these changes in society for contributing to irresponsible sexual behavior. However, by making these resources more accessible, men and women can feel empowered to make more informed and responsible decisions. Advancing the technology of paternity testing gives hope that with better methods available, more people will be open about discussing their paternity questions, take responsibility for their actions and come to a resolution for the health and well-being of everyone involved.
*Article written by Dr. Janet Taylor, IDENTIGENE spokesperson and Community Psychiatrist.
