A new DNA testing technique is shaking up the DAN testing industry.
Until fairly recently, doing a DNA test on an unborn baby was an unpleasant and potentially dangerous experience. It involved inserting a needle into the abdomen of a pregnant woman, which is not only invasive, it also posed a slightly increased risk of miscarriage and other complications. As a result, doctors were hesitant to carry out the procedure unless there was a justifiable medical reason to do so.
However over the last decade or so, a new scientific technique has allowed scientist to detect something called cell-free fetal DNA in the bloodstream of a pregnant woman. This means that a prenatal DNA test can be carried out using nothing more than a blood sample from an expectant mother and a mouth swab from the suspected father. No invasive methods and no risk to the mother or baby.
If you’re interested in the scientific details, as well as other types of test that can be done before birth, have a read of this article over on Quest News Group.
If you or someone you know is thinking about getting a paternity test, it’s important that you carefully consider all of the ramifications – including the potential impact on you, your relationship with your partner, and your family.
The DNA Blog 