All cells contain DNA. This includes the sex cells; sperm and egg cells. When a sperm and egg cell combine the new cell formed contains DNA from both parents. This single cell then divides on its way down the fallopian tube to the uterus. It implants into the uterus wall and grows into a foetus, and eventually a baby. If a couple have more than one child, they will each have different DNA, because the sperm and egg combine differently each time.

DNA analysis in a specialist laboratory can work out which parts came from the sperm (the father) and which from the egg (the mother). The results of this DNA analysis can be used as evidence about the likelihood of 2 individuals being related.

There is only a tiny chance of 2 individuals having identical DNA, unless they are identical twins. Identical twins will have the same DNA because the fertilized egg that split to give the 2 foetuses came from the same sperm and the same egg. It only split after the DNA from the two sex cells had already combined.

DNA analysis can be used to prove or disprove paternity. This is commonly used in cases where the mother is trying to claim maintenance payments from an absent father.

In cases of adoptees who are looking for their natural parents, DNA analysis is also being used.

Several companies have extensive DNA databases. These companies will analyse your DNA, look for a match and inform you discreetly of the results. The process is very simple; you pay your 50 dollars,

you get a swab kit, you use the swab kit to wipe the inside of your cheek, you send off the swabs, the company analyses your DNA and sends you the results. They tell you if there is a match to any of the samples in their database. A

People can trace their relatives, including those in the country from which they emigrated.

Where of a child is disputed, a DNA test can be used to convince a court to order a blood DNA test and make a maintenance order on the father. DNA tests are also used where there is a suspicion that the hospital has mixed up babies.

Your birth parents do not need to have registered to get a result. If ANY person related to you is in the database, a positive result will show. You may find grandparents, siblings or more distant relatives, all of which will lead to more information on your heritage.