In a swab test for paternity, what exactly gets "swabbed?"

Answer by  AnnWalkerKennedy (175)

The usual method for paternity testing involves swabbing the inside of the patient's cheek for saliva. The swab with saliva is sent to a lab, where it is analyzed for DNA. The infants' DNA is similarly analyzed and if a close match - 99% or better - then paternity is established.

Answer by  bubbyboy (9929)

Usually the inside of the cheek gets swabbed. There is DNA material here to be tested. DNA can also be taken from a cigarette filter, drinking cup etc.

Answer by  elynne (1153)

It is not nearly as serious as it might sound. What is swabbed is usually the inside of your mouth, along your cheek. What is being collected are cells off your mucous membrane. If you hae ever watched any of the CSI programs, you have seen them swiping a person with a long q-tip swab. That what is it.

Answer by  Pam84 (330)

Well, let me put your mind at ease! The cells in your body carry your unique dna code and there is no need to go any place special to get some! A swab test usually swabs the insde of the mouth to get a few epithelial cells. Painless - Non-Invasive!