Nothing can be further from the truth. Although many women in the past may have been forced to, they never gave up on their children.

When you choose adoption, you’re giving your child benefits they might not otherwise have. You’re giving them:

• A loving, caring family.
• A two-parent home with possible siblings.
• Better opportunities for education, travel, hobbies, etc.

A loving mother never gives up. She plans for her child’s future, including choosing another family to parent them.

Why Do People Say “Giving Up?”

When the term “giving up” was used, being pregnant and unmarried was an embarrassment to a woman and her family. Society determined that a woman should “give up” her child and never talk about it again. A woman had no idea who had adopted her child or where they had gone.

Today’s adoption process is very different. Now, the expectant mother or birth mother makes all of the decisions.

Do I Have Rights When Choosing Adoption?

You do have rights. You are entitled to the following rights and privileges:

• To pay nothing for adoption services.
• To receive thorough adoption counseling before, during, and after the adoption is finalized.
• To not be coerced or manipulated into choosing adoption.
• If you wish, select the family who will raise your child.
• Receive pregnancy-related expenses, including medical and legal expenses.
• Determine the amount of contact you want to have with your child and their adoptive family.
• The right to change your mind until you sign the Consent to Termination of Parental Rights and Adoption papers.

What Should I Tell My Family?

Your family likely has many opinions, questions, and concerns. Ultimately, this is your decision and yours alone.

If you’re considering adoption and worried that your family won’t support your decision, our counselors are happy to talk with your family members to help them understand your choice.

Your first step is to determine if adoption is right for you. Contact us, and we can discuss your situation and the adoption process. At A Gift of Hope Adoptions, we answer your questions and help you feel supported as you consider adoption.

You don’t have to commit to an adoption because you contact us. We’re here to help you in any way we can. Fill out our private online contact form, and we’ll be in touch shortly.

This blog is for informational purposes only. This is not legal or medical advice. While we try our best to reflect current laws with accuracy at the time of writing, please note the laws can change over time.