Adoption is the process of carrying your pregnancy to term and legally placing your child with an adoptive family you choose to raise them.
Adoption can be an emotionally complex decision, but it’s also a choice that’s full of options, depending on your goals and desires for the process.
How Adoption Works
When you choose adoption, you’ll work with an adoption agency or attorney to select the adoptive family and create an adoption plan.
An adoption plan is essentially a document that outlines your communication goals. There are three types of adoption plans. Each is customizable and includes:
- Open Adoption: In open adoption, there is direct communication between you and the adoptive family. Contact can include regular visits, phone calls, emails, and the exchange of photos. Open adoption allows for an ongoing relationship with the adoptive family and your child.
- Semi-Open Adoption: Semi-open adoption involves indirect communication facilitated by an adoption agency or attorney. You and the adoptive family may exchange letters, photos, or updates through a third party. This plan provides some level of connection while maintaining privacy.
- Closed Adoption: In a closed adoption, there is no contact between you and the adoptive family. All identifying information remains confidential, and the child’s birth records are sealed. Closed adoption is chosen for various reasons, including privacy or security concerns.
How Do I Know If Adoption Is Right for Me?
Only you can decide if adoption is the right choice for you. As you’re thinking through adoption, ask yourself the following questions:
- What are my biggest concerns when it comes to adoption?
- What adoption plan appeals to me most and why?
- What might my life look like if I choose adoption?
- What questions do I still have about the process?
We’re Here for You
Navigating your pregnancy options can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.
While we don’t offer adoption services, we can refer you to a reputable agency in our area and talk through your pregnancy options in a safe, supportive space.
Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.