Maternity test
A maternity test is a test which establishes biological motherhood by comparing the DNA of the child with that of the woman. This is usually done by taking a swab sample from mother and child using a cotton bud of the inside of the cheek.
The test itself is a way in which one can scientifically prove whether a woman is the biological mother of a particular person. The test works through an in depth knowledge of DNA. The combination of genetic material that is formed when two different people create a new organism through intercourse means that the child’s genetic make up will therefore be entirely unique. The division of genetic information is almost equal. Therefore the child's DNA composition can be compared with the mother’s DNA composition to investigate whether there is any match. For example, a maternity test may be used, if, babies have been swapped at birth and a test is needed to determine who is the biological mother of which child, or where children who are adopted are searching for their biological mother using information which they would then like to be scientifically verified.
Maternity tests are also often used by mothers themselves wishing to verify that their IVF treatments have resulted in an embryo which has, in fact, definitely been derived from the mother.
DNA testing to prove parentage is incredibly accurate, and for maternity tests in particular, mitochondrial DNA information can be examined by a DNA analyst, as this is only transmitted from the mother.
