DNA Testing During Pregnancy – Minimize The Risks

DNA testing during pregnancy can be used to determine the identity of a father before a child is born. It will be important for several reasons. If more than one person who claimed to be the father, for example, this problem is best cleared up as soon as possible. In fact, there may be a problem to determine where the child will live once its born. In cases where a father who allegedly is trying to avoid their responsibilities, it may be equally important to demonstrate that this person is the father and the law asserts that children should be cared for.

When Do You Perform DNA Testing During Pregnancy

It is important to realize, however, that there is always a degree of risk inherent in prenatal DNA testing. The fetus is most fragile during the first week when it is developing, and tests that can determine the identity of the father may have a problem. Better to have the tests performed during the early weeks to reduce risk. There is DNA testing procedure called chorionic villus sampling, which is only possible during a very short window of time, from week 10 to week 13 of pregnancy.

This type of testing involves a decrease in the level of risk, even if it is too early in fetal life, because it takes tissue from the uterine wall.The tissue is from the same source as the egg which develops into the fetus, and can therefore harvest the genetic information needed. If a window of opportunity is missed, there is no other choice but to use alternative methods of amniocentesis which involves more risk.

How Late Can You Perform DNA Testing During Pregnancy

This type of prenatal DNA testing can be performed up to week 24 of pregnancy, but at each stage involves serious risks, including miscarriage. Think very carefully before you choose to have this procedure done, because there is a risk of some damage that is permanent and irreversible. Remember, there’s always the possibility of carrying out paternity tests after the child is born safely. Do not be tempted to take unnecessary risks just because you are impatient.

The risks involved in DNA testing during pregnancy is higher over time, and after 24 weeks there are very few doctors are willing to perform these tests. Whatever the circumstances of any potential disputes that can be resolved by finding the true parentage of a child, the primary consideration must be the welfare of the unborn baby. In the end, you have to make their own choices, but please do so in full knowledge of the facts, and the potential impact of your actions. As a general rule, the longer you leave it, the more dangerous it is to do DNA testing during pregnancy.