We’re glad you’re asking that question! When you discover you’re unexpectedly pregnant, making a plan to place your unborn baby for adoption could be the answer you’re needing. We understand this is an extremely difficult time in your life. You may be working or going to school, having financial or relationship issues, or you’re already taking care of others.
It probably feels like there’s very little of you left, especially when it comes to caring for a baby. All parents have difficult choices and choosing adoption is tough. You want what’s best for your baby. We’re here to help and answer your questions.
Talk with an adoption specialist
The adoption process requires a lot of trust, so it’s important to begin with a trustworthy agency.
From the beginning, adoption services should always be free to birth mothers and expectant mothers. A reputable business will never ask you to pay for their services.
To make a confident decision for your baby, the adoption coordinator needs to understand why you’re considering adoption. You will need to be able to trust they’ll take care of you and keep your discussions private.
Make an adoption plan
Once you’ve located the person or agency to work with, you’ll start putting together an adoption plan. Most plans today are for open or semi-open adoptions. This type of plan involves exchanging information like names, addresses, or phone numbers with the adoptive family you choose.
You do not have to choose open adoption. It’s perfectly acceptable if you would like to remain anonymous. This is your plan for your baby. Choose what’s most comfortable for you.
Don’t worry if you’re no longer in a relationship with the birth father. Every state has different laws regarding a birth father’s rights. Talk with your adoption coordinator to find out what the requirements are in your area.
Choose your adoptive family
At a time when your life feels out of control, it’s nice to have one thing you have complete control over. As the birth mother or expectant mother, you choose the adoption plan and the adoptive family.
After you’ve described the family you are hoping for, the adoption coordinator will show you bios of families that most closely resemble what you’re looking for. Take your time to look. Finding a match is probably the most important part of your decision. There are many families out there wanting to adopt your baby.
Give your consent
At the time of the adoption, you consent to end your parental rights. Most states have a waiting period after a baby is born to give you time to be completely sure adoption is best for you and your baby.
Adoption is not “co-parenting.” Legal adoptions permanently transfer all rights and responsibilities from the birth parent(s) to the adoptive couple. For this reason, many women choose open adoption to have further contact with the family and their child.
Is adoption right for you and your baby?
Only you know the situation that brought you here and only you know if adoption is the answer. Whether you are wanting to place your newborn or young child for adoption, or make an adoption plan for your unborn baby, we can answer your questions. At A Gift of Hope Adoptions, our counselors are ready to give you information, and most of all, support you no matter what you decide.
Contact us today and let’s start talking.