Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming and scary. Making the decision to place your baby for adoption is one of the most difficult decisions you may ever face. But it can also be one of the most loving and rewarding decisions you can make.
Here are some of the most important things you should know if you are considering adoption:
1. Choosing adoption does not mean saying “goodbye” forever.
Most adoptions today are open. This means you, as the prospective birth mom, can decide how much contact you want to have with your child and their adoptive family. The level of openness is completely your decision, and can include phone calls, emails, letters, and in-person visits.
2. Prospective birth mothers are in charge of the adoption process.
As the prospective birth mother, you are completely in charge of the adoption process. You will select the adoptive family, as well as the type of relationship you want to have with them after placement. You create the birth plan and dictate how you’d like your hospital stay to look. And you can change your mind about any part of the process at any time.
3. Adoption can benefit you and your baby.
You are doing what is best for your life. An unexpected pregnancy can stall your education, career or other life goals. Maybe you aren’t in a financial position to raise a child. Maybe you don’t feel emotionally ready to become a parent. Adoption provides a chance for your to do what is best for your life, while giving your baby the opportunity to live a wonderful life.
4. It does not cost anything to make an adoption plan.
Adoption is completely free to you, the prospective birth mother. Adoption laws allow for you to pursue a free adoption for your newborn, and costs are generally covered by the adoptive family.
5. You are not “giving up” by choosing adoption.
Adoption is not “giving up.” You are making a very loving decision for your child when you choose adoption. This selfless act can give your child the best life possible — one full of opportunities you may not be able to provide. Adoption is an act of pure love.
Adoption is a complicated choice to make, and these are just a few of the most important things you should know as you decide what’s best for you and your baby. To learn more about adoption and what it could mean for you and your child, you can reach an adoption specialist any time at 1-800-AOPTION.
