If you are a pregnant woman seeking to figure out the biological father of your baby, a paternity test can help you identify the right person. However, in addition to health concerns, there may be legal requirements to consider before undergoing testing. It’s important to ensure that you act within the bounds of the law when seeking paternity during pregnancy.
The many methods to paternity testing
You may need to find out the biological father of your baby for legal and personal reasons. For reasons such as changing your baby’s last name and arranging child custody and support. Fortunately, various methods are available to determine paternity. But you must choose a method that poses the least risk to you and your baby. In the U.S., there are three prenatal paternity tests available to you, like:
- Noninvasive prenatal paternity (NIPP)
- Amniocentesis
- Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
To decide the best course of action for your individual circumstances, it’s important to consult with a medical professional before undergoing any testing.
Undergoing the test poses risks
Prenatal testing carries specific risks depending on the type of test performed. Specifically, invasive methods like CVS and amniocentesis have a slight chance of miscarriage and congenital disabilities. If you choose to undergo paternity testing despite the risks, it’s important to confirm with your doctor that you are in good health before undergoing these invasive procedures.
Your doctor may ask you to wait
During pregnancy, there are certain things you must avoid. And paternity testing is no exception. While you may have the urge to figure out your baby’s biological father as soon as possible, it’s important to follow medical advice and wait until the safest time to undergo testing.
In Illinois, paternity can be proven through genetic testing, voluntary acknowledgment or court order. Navigating this process alone can be complex. When necessary, you must seek legal assistance to protect your and your baby’s rights while you maneuver the legal process of seeking support from the alleged father.
