Adoption Referrals

You have lots of choices with adoption. Will it be private or will you use an agency? Will it be open or closed? In today’s adoptions, you can know your child and be a part of your child’s life. Even if you feel that you cannot provide everything your child needs, you are in the driver’s seat when making an adoption plan.

Adoption is a wonderful option if you:

Don’t want an abortion and aren’t ready to be a parent.
Want to provide your child with a 2-parent family.
Want your child to be loved and cared for.
Want to provide your child emotional and financial stability.
We can help you understand your options regarding adoption.

10 Questions Expectant Mothers Ask About Adoption

How can adoption be good for my baby and me?

If you are not ready to be a parent, you can still give your baby the gift of life by choosing adoption. You can plan for your baby’s future by selecting a stable, loving family to care for your baby. After birth you can see your baby, name your baby, and spend time with your baby. If you choose, you may be able to get updates on your child’s progress or have ongoing visits throughout your child’s life while you continue your education or career goals. Finally, you can be proud that you chose life for your baby.

Can I choose a family for my baby?

Yes! Most agencies have many different families you can choose from. These families have been screened and approved. There are additional options such as choosing a friend or someone who has been recommended to you. Your agency will discuss these options with you.

How much contact can I have with my baby after birth and after adoption?

You may have as much contact with your baby at the hospital as you desire. When planning your child’s adoption, you can choose an open adoption plan which allows ongoing visits with your child, or you can choose to be informed about your child’s progress through letters and photos. Adoptive families respect your need to know that your child is loved and happy. If you prefer not to have any contact with your child or the adoptive family, confidential-adoption plans are also possible.

How soon after birth can my baby go to the parents I choose?

The timing of your child’s placement depends on three factors:

Your preference for the time of placement
Legal aspects of adoption, which vary from state to state
The cooperation of the birth father

Many birth mothers want their baby placed with the adoptive family directly from the hospital. Some women prefer to place their baby in temporary care while they consider their adoption decision. Your agency can help arrange either option.

How much will my child know about me?

That depends on what type of adoption you choose – open, semi-open, or confidential. No matter what type of adoption plan you make, your agency will encourage you to provide your complete medical and social history to your child; in some states that information is required. You may choose to share your identity and where you live with the adoptive family. If you’ve made an open adoption plan, you may have ongoing, direct contact with your child and the adoptive family. The information your child will know about the birth father depends on his relationship with you and your counselor. Most birth fathers give their complete medical and social history, recognizing how important it is for the child. In some cases, the only information available about the birth father is what the birth mother provides.

Does the birth father have any rights?

Both you and the birth father have rights. If you disagree about adoption or you no longer have a relationship with him, your agency will work with the birth father and/or the court to determine if his rights can be terminated.

Can my child find me if he/she wants to search someday?

The laws in your state determine when and how your child may have access to information in the adoption file. Your caseworker will explain the current laws as they apply to your adoption plan.

How can I be sure my child will be well cared for?

Adoptive families approved by your agency must meet standards that are shared with you. Your agency will make every attempt to complete a thorough assessment of potential adoptive families. Prior to finalizing the adoption, a caseworker will make home visits to ensure the child’s well-being. In an open adoption, you will see for yourself how well your child is cared for and how much your child is loved.

Do I need an attorney or do I pay my agency to assist me with the adoption?

In most states, you do not need an attorney and there are no costs to you. The adoption agency handles all the legal details for you and the birth father.

Does the agency offer assistance with medical and living expenses while I am making an adoption plan?

Assistance with medical and living expenses is available through many agencies. Our clinic can also provide you with referrals and access to social services and assistance with paperwork.