The DNA-based maternity molecular genetic test can be used to determine whether the person considered to be the child's mother is actually the biological mother of the child. In a manner similar to the paternity test, this procedure provides certainty as to whether the genetic material of the child being tested originates from the woman being tested as the mother.
This test may play a role in the following cases:
- In the case of an adopted child, proving the identity of the true mother
- In the case of artificial insemination, whether the implanted embryo was placed into the biological mother
- Detection of accidental or deliberate baby switching at a healthcare institution
The maternity DNA test requires the participation of a child, the alleged mother and the biological father. If the father is available, his participation is strongly advantageous. If a DNA sample is available from him as well, the laboratory effectively "subtracts" his DNA pattern from the child's, and the remainder can then be compared with the alleged mother's pattern far more accurately. The test carried out with the participation of the child, the father and the alleged mother is the Trio test.
