Exploring the Loving Choice of Adoption
When facing an unplanned pregnancy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. You might be considering adoption but aren’t really sure where to start. That’s where we can help! Let’s talk about the benefits of adoption for birth mothers and explore the three types of adoptions, so you can decide which option might be the best fit for you and your child. Making an adoption plan is a big decision, but we’re here for you every step of the way.
Why Consider Adoption?
Adoption Puts You in Full Control
You get to choose the family you want for your child, the type of adoption you want to pursue and the agency you want to partner with as you go through this process.
Adoption is Free for the Birth Mother
Adoption costs are 100% free and covered by the adopted family. Included are important things like:
- 24/7 support and counseling
- Adoption planning
- Medical care for the birth mother and baby
- Legal services
- Living expenses, depending on your circumstances
Adoption Gives You Peace of Mind
Knowing your baby is being loved and cared for by the couple of your choice will give you peace of mind now and in the future.
Adoption is a Loving Choice
Not only does adoption provide a loving home and give your child a future, but it also blesses the family you choose with the chance to love and raise a child, an opportunity that might not otherwise be possible.
Types of Adoption
There are three main types of adoptions and they are each based on the level of involvement you want to have in your child’s life going forward.
Closed Adoption
A closed adoption is where the adoptive family and birth mother have no contact. As the birth mother, you still get to choose the adoptive family you want for your child by viewing family profiles, or you can work with an adoption professional who will select a family for you. Once you choose a family, they will not be able to contact you or locate you unless you let them.
Semi-Open Adoption
A semi-open adoption allows you as the birth mom to receive updates about your child from their adoptive family with the adoption agency serving as the go-between. After your child’s placement, these updates could include the family mailing you photos so you can see what your baby looks like and letters with updates about their life. This option lets both parties keep in touch and share future medical information if needed. The semi-open adoption can later become an open adoption if that’s something both parties want to pursue.
Open Adoption *
In an open adoption, the birth mother maintains contact with your child and the adoptive family to the level that you feel comfortable. It creates the opportunity for building a relationship with your child and the family. This option is a wonderful fit for those women who want to be part of their child’s life and have an ongoing relationship with the adoptive family.
Next Steps
If you’re pregnant and need support of any kind, we are here to help. From our Options Consultation, to Ultrasound and Adoption Agency Referrals, we can help you find out how far along you are and give you the information you need to make a confident decision about your pregnancy.
*This piece mentions benefits of open adoption plans, which are not legally enforceable in Texas.