Make an adoption plan.
Deciding to place a baby for adoption is never easy, and it is natural for expectant mothers to have questions about the adoption process.
If you are undecided on what to do next, it can be helpful to understand what happens when a baby is placed for adoption, as well as what the alternative options might be.
Learning more about any of these avenues does not mean you are committed to them. By conducting research, you can better make an informed decision, whatever that may be. It is common for expectant mothers experiencing an unplanned pregnancy to look into different options when deciding what is best for themselves and their child.
One of the steps to help you through the decision-making process, is making an adoption plan:
Making an Adoption Plan
When placing a baby for adoption, your social worker will help you create an adoption plan.
This outlines the details of your wishes and expectations at each stage of the adoption process and also forms the framework for choosing a family and deciding on what type of adoption you would prefer, and what you feel is ultimately best for your child.
a. Paperwork
Typically there is some paperwork to initiate the process with the adoption agency. This should not bind you to any decision but help them provide you with the best services.
A medical history form is usually completed and a release of information so they can communicate with your doctor’s office and hospital, when you are ready.
Again, none of these forms should be legally binding.
b. Make contact with support services
Your adoption agency will be able to connect you with services such as peer counseling, adoption-competent therapy, and specialist support groups.
This enables you to meet qualified professionals to talk through your feelings, preparing you emotionally for the months ahead. It can also be helpful to chat with other people with experience of the adoption process such as adults who were adopted as children, adoptive families, and birth mothers who placed their child for adoption.
Is anyone in your community supportive of your adoption plan? Again this is a time to seek people who will listen with empathy, understanding, and respect. When expectant mothers are considering adoption, family and friends can help you think through options, choose an adoptive family, and be there to help support you after placement.
c. Birth father involvement
Are you together and is he supporting your adoption plan? In some states, the birth father can waive his rights before delivery, giving you control to make the decisions.If you are a couple, maybe you want to sign at the same time after birth? If you can’t identify or find him, your social worker will advise on the best way to terminate his rights in your state.
Ready for more information, read How to place a baby for adoption: essential guide (7 steps)
Welcome to Adopt International
If you found this article useful, you might also find this useful: What is open adoption?
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Adopt International is a non-profit organization. We provide extensive support and assistance to expectant mothers who are considering adoption for their child. Learn more here.
If you are a family who is considering adopting a child, learn more here.
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