Paternity Testing During Pregnancy
There are two methods in which this can be done. One of them is the chorionic villus sampling and the other one is through amniocentesis. Each of these procedures requires the use of a thin needle that will be inserted into the cervix or the abdomen. A doctor performs these procedures with the guidance of an ultrasound to ensure that there are no errors during the placement of the needle.
During CVS, the needle is used to collect a sample of the tissue of the placenta. As both the placenta and the baby carry the same DNA, the collected tissue can be used for a paternity test. CVS can be conducted at 10 to 14 weeks of pregnancy.
What are the Options?
Amniocentesis can be performed by the 14th week of pregnancy and involves the insertion of a thin needle into the abdomen.
There are risks involved in both of these procedures, which is why your doctor must sign a form that gives his permission and approval for you to have the procedure needed for the paternity testing. Risks from a CVS include spotting, cramping, infection, and a 1 in 100 to 1 in 200 increase of miscarrying.
The primary risk associated with amniocentesis is miscarriage. These numbers are 1 in 200 to 1 in 400. Miscarriages usually happen due to a uterine infection, water breaking or premature labor being induced. Rarely, the needle can connect with the baby, although this is very uncommon. Side effects for the mother include cramping, fluid leakage, and minor irritation at the injection site.
As you can see, there is a good reason that your doctor needs to be a part of this process every step of the way. In fact, if you fall into the category of a high risk pregnancy, you will most likely not be granted permission to have a paternity test before you give birth to your baby. No doctor wants to take a chance with your baby’s life, or yours for that matter, just to find out who the baby’s father is. This does not mean that establishing the identity of the father is unimportant. It simply means that, in looking at the whole picture, the health of you and your baby is of primary importance.
The paternity of your baby can be established following the birth in much safer ways that will present no danger. If you find yourself in a situation of being pregnant and having a need to know who the father of your baby is, you should apprise your doctor of the circumstances immediately. Then the two of you can discuss the feasibility of you having a paternity test while pregnant. Take your doctor’s advice in order to insure the good health of your baby.