The question of paternity has become an increasingly popular subject in today's society. Statistically speaking one out of ten people who believe they know the true identity of their biological father, is incorrect. As shocking as that may seem it is a national statistic. If you are one of the people who wish to be certain of who their father is or would like to be certain of your child's paternity, DNA testing is the most accurate way to find out the truth. However, a lot of people are uncertain on some points concerning paternity testing. So, when you are done reading this article you will be clear on the most common questions people have regarding paternity testing. You will know what paternity testing is, who accurate it is, and if the mother needs to be present at the test. You will also know if a test can be administered if the father in question is deceased, what happens if the fathers in question are related, and if the test can be done before the baby is born.

First things first, what is paternity testing? Strictly speaking, a paternity test is the scientific way to determine the father of a child. This is done by comparing the DNA of the mother, child and father in question. You can also use DNA testing to identify your mother and other close relations, including grandparents and sibling.

Now, you may be wondering how accurate a DNA paternity test is. The test will do one of two things. It can rule someone out as a possible candidate for paternity. It can also confirm paternity with 99.9% probability.

So, does the mother absolutely have to be present for the test? The answer to this question depends on who performs the test for you. While a mother's sample is suggested, some laboratories' methods are so accurate that the mother's sample may not be needed.

Now, circumstances vary person to person and the father in question may be deceased. You can still do a paternity test for your child. This would be considered a reconstructive case. DNA testing would need to be done on relatives of the deceased father in question. For best results, the closer the relation, the better. Just know there is still hope in a situation like this.

Other times the fathers in questions may be related. You may wonder if a conclusive paternity test can be done. You will need to notify the laboratory in advance for a situation like this. They can run more identity markers for your test.

There may be a situation where paternity is questioned before the baby is born and you would like to know if you can have a test done. The answer is yes. The mother would have to agree to an amniocentesis being performed. However, before that is done she would need to discuss the risks involved with that procedure with her doctor and then decide what is best for the situation.

If you are curious about the paternity of your children a DNA paternity test can give you the answers you need. You can also use the test to rule someone out as a possible candidate for paternity.