Essential Adoption Information for Prospective Birth Mothers

Are you experiencing an unplanned pregnancy?

When it comes to this emotionally challenging situation, finding the best and most accurate information can seem like a nearly impossible task. But we’re here to help.

Odds are, if you are reading this article, you are looking for information on adoption and the potential benefits it could provide you and your baby. Choosing adoption is not a decision you should take lightly, as this life-changing choice is something that requires research and knowledge. But, by reading this free adoption information and exploring the resources to determine if adoption is right for you, you will feel confident no matter which path you choose.

If you are in need of immediate assistance or background information on adoption, fill out this form to be connected with an adoption specialist anytime.

In the meantime, continue reading to learn more about adoption and the positive impact it can provide for you and your baby.

Pregnant? Important Adoption Information for Birth Mothers

If you are considering adoption for your baby, there is a good chance you already understand the basic concept of adoption. When a prospective birth mother decides to pursue adoption for her baby, she gives up her parental rights and places her child with an adoptive family.

But there are many more things to know about adoption before deciding it’s right for you.

Open Adoption Information

Modern adoptions are completely different than the closed, taboo adoptions of the past. These days, it’s incredibly common for birth parents and adoptive families to choose an open adoption relationship — to stay in touch after the adoption occurs.

Are you aware there are different levels of openness available for prospective birth mothers when they choose adoption? If not, you are not alone.

Many women are unaware of these options, which is why finding adoption information is so important for prospective birth mothers considering adoption. The level of openness you choose will completely change your adoption experience.

The different levels of adoption are as follows:

Closed Adoption Information

Closed adoption is just how it sounds: closed communication after placement occurs. There are no updates and no communication; the two parties go their separate ways after the adoption.

Although some women prefer this option, as they feel it brings them closure, others birth mothers feel there is a greater emotional impact not being able to stay up to date throughout their child’s life.

Semi-Open Adoption Information

For adoptive families and prospective birth mothers who would prefer to keep their identities private — but are not against the opportunity to provide updates or remain updated on the child — there is semi-open adoption. Most of the time, these updates are provided in the form of photos, letters or emails, and are mediated by an adoption agency or lawyer.

Open Adoption Information

In an open adoption, the birth parents and adoptive family stay in contact throughout the pregnancy and after placement occurs. This level of open communication allows the birth mother to remain updated on her child’s life through emails, texts, pictures, phone calls and more. Some open adoption situations even allow for in-person meetings between all parties involved, which provides an added layer to the child’s support system as they grow up.

One of the most important things to know about adoption? You determine which type of adoption you would prefer for your baby. Working with your adoption specialist to create your adoption plan will help determine the best path for you.

There are certainly pros and cons to an open adoption, and it may not be for everyone. The benefits for the triad members, but ultimately it is a decision you have to make for yourself.

Choosing an Adoptive Family

Once you have determined your preferred level of openness, your professional will match you to adoption profiles of families who have the same desired outcome. These profiles will contain pictures, videos and background information on potential candidates to adopt your baby.

As the prospective birth mother, you are in complete control of who you decide you would like to place your child with. Much like your need to educate yourself on any and all adoption information before making a decision, you will want to feel completely confident in the decision you make for an adoptive family.

Pre-placement, you will have the opportunity to speak with the adoptive family. During this time, it is important to discuss questions or concerns you may have and to try to get a feel for the family’s true personality.

One of the things to know about adoption is that there are rigorous background checks and screening processes that hopeful adoptive families must complete. This should provide you with peace of mind that adoptive families can provide a safe and loving home for your child.

You will be faced with many difficult decisions throughout the adoption process, but you do not have to make these decisions alone. Adoption professionals are available to provide adoption information packets or answer any questions you have.

3 Common Questions About Adoption

When you’re considering adoption as a prospective birth mother, it’s normal to have questions or concerns about adoption and how it applies to you. Working with an adoption agency will help guide you throughout your specific situation, but for more information on adoption, we’ve listed and answered some of the most common questions from women like you:

1. How do I choose an adoption agency?

The adoption agency you choose will ultimately impact your entire adoption experience. But, with so many adoption information services out there, finding the right one can be difficult.

The first factor in your decision? The way they treat you. Adoption agencies should put your needs first and make sure you are confident and comfortable throughout your entire pregnancy.

Second, determine if the agency can provide all of the necessary services to help you complete a successful adoption:

  • Counseling services
  • Adoption and hospital planning
  • Financial assistance
  • Profiles of adoptive families

Third, consider the location of your agency. Odds are, you may make several trips to the agency you choose, so you don’t want to inconvenience yourself if you don’t have to. Finding an agency close by can improve your experience and help build a relationship with your adoption professional.

Fourth, take into consideration the agency’s reputation and experience. Adoption is a complex process; you want to make sure you are working with an agency that is fully up to date on the ever-changing laws and requirements. Agencies that have been around for longer tend to provide the best customer service and have vast adoption information services.

2. How much does adoption cost?

One of the most common reasons a prospective birth mother considers adoption in the first place is because of the financial burden attached to raising a child. But prospective birth mothers do not have to pay anything for their adoption.

In some situations, prospective birth mothers may receive financial assistance in the form of living expenses that cover their pregnancy and adoption related costs. While they do not “get paid” for adoption, there is no financial burden when a mother decides adoption is best for her and her baby.

3. Can I change my mind?

A prospective birth mother may change her mind anytime about placing her baby for adoption, but only if she has not already given consent.

It’s not uncommon for prospective birth parents to change their mind at some point throughout the adoption process. For this reason, each state has specific laws on how long you must wait after birth to give consent to the adoption — to ensure you are 100% confident in your decision. Your adoption professional will inform you of the specific laws in your state, as well as reiterate the importance of understanding consent.

We understand that these are just a few of the questions you may have about adoption. It is common to have many more. You can always fill out this form to speak with an adoption specialist who can answer any questions you may have about adoption, or any step in the process.

How to Find Out Adoption Information

We cannot reiterate enough the benefits of finding the best and most accurate information on adoption. Fully educating yourself on the process and the steps involved goes a long way toward making a decision and feeling comfortable doing so.

Here you will find some of the most trusted websites to further your education on adoption:

  • American Adoptions: A national adoption agency with more than 20 years of experience. Provides all resources needed to learn and pursue adoption.
  • Considering Adoption: Website providing adoption information, resources and blogs for adoptive parents and expectant parents considering adoption.
  • AdoptionAgencies.com: Website with a full guide to the types of adoption agencies and the available professionals across the U.S.
  • Adoption.com: Website with numerous resources and links to information on adoption.

Want more free adoption information? Contact us online to be referred to an adoption specialist. Pursuing adoption may seem like a daunting task now, but with adoption information readily available and a specialist standing by, you can find comfort through this difficult time.

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