Paternity tests are most commonly conducted using a simple and non-invasive method called a buccal swab.
The Buccal Swab Method
Here's how the process works:
- Sample Collection:
- A cotton swab is gently rubbed against the inside of the cheek. This collects cells from the inner lining of the mouth, which contain DNA.
- The test typically involves collecting samples from the child and the alleged father. A sample from the mother can also be included for more precise results.
- Laboratory Analysis:
- The swabs containing the tissue samples are sent to a specialized laboratory.
- In the lab, technicians extract the DNA from the cells.
- They analyze specific genetic markers in the DNA, which are highly variable from person to person.
- By comparing these markers between the child and the alleged father, they determine the probability of paternity.
Why Use a Buccal Swab?
- Non-Invasive: It is a painless and straightforward process, unlike blood samples.
- Ease of Collection: It can be done at home or in a clinical setting with minimal training.
- Accurate Results: The method is highly accurate in determining paternity due to the reliability of DNA analysis.
Step-by-Step Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | A cotton swab is rubbed inside the cheek to collect a tissue sample. |
| 2 | The tissue samples are sent to a lab specializing in genetic marker testing. |
| 3 | DNA is extracted and analyzed in the lab. |
| 4 | Genetic markers are compared to determine paternity probabilities. |
