Paternity testing helps simplify essential matters such as custody, child support, inheritance benefits, medical history, and family bonds. If you need to determine the paternity of your unborn child, you may be wondering whether you should schedule testing before or after birth. Both options produce accurate results, so the right decision depends on your situation. To help you make the best choice for you and your child, here are the differences between prenatal and postnatal paternity testing. 

Prenatal vs. Postnatal Paternity Testing

Prenatal 

The safest form of prenatal paternity testing is known as Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP). The test requires a blood sample from the mother and a cheek sample from the possible father and offers 99.9% accuracy by analyzing the baby’s DNA found in the mother’s bloodstream. You must be at least eight weeks pregnant for the test to work. Results are typically available in about seven business days. This test is a good option for those who want to know the paternity as soon as possible. 

Postnatal

If you’d rather wait until after the baby’s birth to determine paternity, choose postnatal testing. Typically, a postnatal paternity test collects the baby’s DNA via a cheek sample. During collection, the baby’s mouth should not contain any amniotic fluid, breast milk, or formula. This form of testing also requires cheek samples from the alleged father and the mother, if she is available. In some cases, instead of a cheek sample, the baby’s DNA can be collected via umbilical cord sample or blood sample. In general, the laboratory will provide results about three days after receiving the samples. 

If you need accurate, affordable paternity testing, turn to the team at AccuDNA. For 15 years, they’ve provided confidential DNA testing services throughout the St. Louis, MO metro area. They offer quick and painless postnatal testing as well as safe, noninvasive prenatal testing. Learn more about their trusted methods at their website, and call (314) 845-9997 to schedule an appointment.