Paternity DNA testing, most especially, has grown popular in Nigeria in recent years. This is due to the influx of stories about paternity fraud and broken homes. However, despite the growing popularity, several aspects of paternity DNA testing are still misunderstood.
In this article, we take a look at 10 of the most common myths about paternity DNA testing and the contrasting facts that dispel these myths.
MYTH 1: Paternity DNA Test Ruins Relationships, Marriages etc
This is not true. Paternity DNA test is also used in several important issues such as adoption, immigration, legal purposes (e.g inheritance, insurance) etc. Without doubt, the decision to undergo a paternity DNA test can be emotionally draining. However, the test helps provide the much needed closure, allowing all parties to freely move on with their lives.
MYTH 2: Paternity DNA Test is Expensive
This is not entirely true. Granted that paternity tests used to be expensive. That is not the case again. Thanks to current advancements in technology, paternity tests have become cheaper and more accessible to the public. However, it is worth noting that quality should never be sacrificed for the price especially with sensitive tests such as this. If you need to find out more information about the cost of paternity testing at Smart DNA, click here.
MYTH 3: Paternity DNA Test is Painful
This is not true. A paternity test is usually carried out using a simple swab of the cheeks with a special cotton swab. No blood is required as this method also ensures high accuracy of results.
MYTH 4: Paternity DNA Test Takes A Long Time To Complete
With the advent of new forms of testing, such as the home paternity test, the timeframe for getting the samples and testing in the lab is now as short as ever. At, Smart DNA, results are provided within 5 to 7 working days after samples are collected.
MYTH 5: Paternity Test Is Not Possible Until After the Baby is Born
This is not true. The paternity of an unborn child can be established using a prenatal paternity test. However, this method is more expensive and also requires blood samples from the mother and just swab from the alleged father(s). It is worth noting that this method is safe, accurate and also provides early closure for both parties.
MYTH 6: Paternity DNA Test Can Not Be Carried Out If the Father is Not Available
While it would help if the father is available for the test, there are also other methods of establishing paternity. A paternity DNA test can be carried out by analysing the DNA of the grandparents. The results can be used to establish paternity.
MYTH 7: Paternity DNA Tests Are Not Confidential
Confidentiality varies among DNA testing agencies. This is why it is important to ensure that you choose a reputable agency to carry out the test. At Smart DNA, we ensure that the entire process is carried out in a private and confidential manner to ensure peace of mind of the parties involved.
MYTH 8: All DNA Centres Are The Same. I Can Carry Out My Test At Any Centre
Unfortunately, all DNA centres are not the same. Before you decide on which centre you want to carry out your test, ensure you check their accreditations and certifications. At Smart DNA, DNA samples are tested twice (double-check) to ensure the accuracy of the test. Our laboratory is also ISO certified and internationally accredited.
MYTH 9: Home Paternity Test Can Be Used For Any Paternity Dispute
While the home paternity test remains the cheapest and easiest method to establish paternity, this type of test is not useful in cases such as immigration or legal purposes (inheritance, insurance etc.). It is very important you discuss with the agency of your choice before you embark on any test.
MYTH 10: Paternity Test Is Not Reliable
This is not true as paternity DNA testing is the most accurate way to establish paternity. At Smart DNA, we test up to 42 genetic loci to ensure up to 99.9% accuracy.
Smart DNA offers fully accredited DNA testing to clients all over Nigeria. We understand that your decision to seek a DNA test is a sensitive issue especially in a country like Nigeria, and this is why we have a team of fully trained individuals to ensure that we make the procedure as seamless as possible. Our services are accessible to not only individuals but courts, embassies and immigration offices. For more information about our services, speak to our care experts on +234 802 984 0246