Paternity testing is becoming more important as parents wait longer to marry and technology advances. With advances in technology it is now possible for an expectant mother to request a prenatal paternity test. There are two common options to choose from: Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) or Amniocentesis. However, there is a third option many consider to be less invasive. This requires a blood sample from both the mother and potential father. If you are considering a prenatal paternity test, let us answer some of your common questions.
Prenatal Paternity Testing Types
Chronic Villus Sampling (CVS)
CVS is one of the more cutting edge procedures. This involves extracting a DNA sample from the fetus, which is found in wisps of tissue surrounding the fetus. This is generally performed 10 to 13 weeks into the pregnancy. Costs easily can reach into the thousands with CVS. However, some research suggests this procedure may cause birth defects and also carries a change of miscarriage. Thus, doctors are often hesitant to perform it for prenatal paternity testing alone.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is another type of prenatal paternity testing. This is basically when a physician inserts a needle into the mother’s abdomen and draws out amniotic fluid. While the fetus is in the womb, it sheds cells into the amniotic fluid that can be compared to the DNA of potential fathers. This process is also very costly, ranging in the $1,000-$3,000 range. It also carries a risk of miscarriage.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
The most non-invasive prenatal paternity testing is an option starting 8 weeks into the pregnancy. This allows for blood samples from the mother and potential father. Extensive testing occurs that compares the DNA from the mother and her fetus to the DNA of the potential father. This generally costs around $1,600 or more. Further, this only provides a probability of paternity and does not give a certain paternity determination.
Legal Implications to Prenatal Paternity Testing
While prenatal paternity testing and results can provide a great deal of emotional relief and certainty to a mother or potential father, there are certain legal implications. First, the law does allow for prenatal paternity testing. However, the findings of who the father is will not be determined by the court until after the birth of the child. See 10 O.S. § 7700-611. Thus, you may receive benefits after the child is born if the father is unwilling to recognize the child during the pregnancy.
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Let Our Tulsa Paternity Attorneys Help
We understand that a baby is a responsibility that both parties bear. If you need a prenatal paternity test to determine your child’s parentage let us know. Our offices will help you with the necessary forms and walk you through the emotional and legal processes. First consultation is free.