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Adoption is an act of love. While it is not an easy path, it is one that is worthwhile. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may be considering this option. You may also be asking yourself, “How does adoption work?” It can feel like an overwhelming process.
You may be new to this experience, but you can still lovingly make an adoption plan for your child. Making an adoption plan is the current term used within the adoption community. You may be familiar with the term “giving a baby up for adoption,” but this is a misrepresentation. Adoption is FAR from “giving up.” When an expectant/birth mother decides to place her child for adoption, she chooses the selfless path. Adoption requires strength, love, and devotion. Choosing adoption means placing your child’s needs before your own.
If you are thinking about adoption for your child, you may want to learn more about the adoption process. As you wonder, “How does giving a baby up for adoption work?” you can read this guide. Here, we will share how adoption works and what you should know.
An Overview of the Adoption Process
1. Decide Whether Adoption is Right for You
Before doing anything, it is important to consider your pregnancy options. Many expectant/birth parents consider parenthood. While parenthood can be a rewarding journey, it can also be extremely difficult for unprepared parents. Another option that many expectant parents consider is abortion. It is important to discuss this choice with a healthcare professional before choosing termination.
If you cannot – or do not wish to – have an abortion, but you know that you are not ready to take on parenthood, you may want to consider adoption. This is a positive, loving decision that can offer many benefits for everyone involved in the adoption triad. Choosing adoption means choosing a hopeful future for both you and your child. Working with a full-service adoption agency means having access to supportive services – at no cost to you. This includes counseling services – before and after the adoption is complete – legal support, and guidance every step of the way. You can also receive financial assistance through your adoption agency.
2. Choose an Adoption Agency
Once you have determined that adoption is right for you, or that you would like to learn more about the adoption process, you should reach out to an adoption professional. This organization will offer you support and guidance every step of the way. With a fully licensed, private adoption agency, you can lovingly design an adoption plan for your child while having the help you need. The best adoption agencies will offer assistance without any pressure, bias, or criticism. With the right adoption agency by your side, you can rest assured that your adoption will be handled safely, legally, and lovingly. You will not be alone on the adoption journey.
3. Select an Adoptive Family
Once you have found the best adoption agency for you, you can move on to the next step of the adoption process. You can choose your child’s adoptive family with your adoption agency’s help. This means browsing the adoptive family profiles of individuals and couples who have already been pre-approved for adoption. This is done with the Home Study process. This process, which takes several months to complete, ensures that each family is healthy enough – physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially – to raise a child. Your adoption agency can help arrange a discussion – or in-person meeting – with a family before you make your decision.
4. Create Your Adoption Plan
The next step in the adoption process is to design your adoption plan. At Adoptions With Love, you can choose from the following:
Learn More About Adoption Plans
Most adoptions today are open. With open adoption, there is ongoing contact between birth and adoptive families. The form and frequency of communication are up to you. You can choose from methods, such as:
- Text messages
- Email updates
- Phone calls
- In-person reunions
Closed adoption means there is no information shared between birth and adoptive families, and there is no contact at any point between the two parties. This can be a positive choice for anyone looking for privacy.
There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to making an adoption plan. The right adoption agency will listen to your wishes and concerns, and help you find a plan that makes you feel most comfortable – and confident in – the adoption.
5. Understand the Legal Requirements
Adoption laws vary by state and can be quite complex. For these reasons, it is important to work with an adoption agency that can offer you free legal support. The adoption attorney team at Adoptions With Love can oversee your child’s adoption from start to finish, handling everything from the consent forms to finalization in family court. This professional can also meet you at a time and place that is most convenient for you, including your home or hospital bed. They can take the time to answer your questions, help you understand the adoption process, and ensure your rights as an expectant/birth parent are protected.
Continue Learning About Adoption
If you would like to discuss your adoption options, contact Adoptions With Love today. We can help you understand the process of “giving a baby up for adoption” (remember: It is NOT giving up) and offer you the care, support, and dignity you deserve. Call 800-722-7731, text (confidentially) 617-777-0072, or contact us online for commitment-free information.