If you have already given birth and think adoption might be the best path for you and your baby, please know that the timing is entirely in your hands. Making an adoption plan is still an option, even after your baby’s arrival.
Adoption Plans
Adoption has changed a lot over the years and has become an option full of choices for birth mothers. Not only can you select the family that raises your child, but if you choose, you can also keep in contact with your child as he or she grows.
- Open Adoption — In an open adoption, the birth mother can meet the birth family she chooses. Birth mothers select an adoption plan that works for them. They can decide how they would like to communicate, in person or through phone calls, for example, and how often they would like communication. Birth mothers that choose an open adoption usually take this path for many reasons, including:
- They want their baby to know who they are and why they placed them in an adoptive family.
- They want their child to know their heritage.
- They want to see their child grow.
- Semi-Open Adoption — In a semi-open adoption, communication between the birth mother and the adoptive family occurs through a third party, like the adoption agency or an adoption attorney. You receive updates as often as you and the adoptive parents have decided it is appropriate. Updates can include pictures and letters. Usually, only first names are shared, but no contact information is exchanged for confidentiality. Birth mothers can choose to share their medical history with the family, so the child will know which health conditions might have been inherited.
- Closed Adoption—A closed adoption is one in which no communication between the birth mother and the adoptive family occurs. Your adoption agency selects the adoptive family, and the courts seal the original birth certificate.
Seek Support
Your strength and love for your child are evidenced by exploring all options to ensure their best possible future. Remember, there’s no need to rush or worry about timelines.
You’re not alone in this process, and there’s a supportive network ready to stand by your side. Contact Alpha Center to schedule an appointment and discuss your options.