Call: 800-722-7731
Text: 617-777-0072
Open adoption is a positive, loving decision for anyone not able to raise a child. If you are considering adoption, you may have many questions. You likely know about adoption in general but could have many questions about open adoption. This type of adoption plan can offer expectant/birth mothers many benefits, but getting the process started can feel overwhelming. The best place to start: An Adoption agency with whom you can trust.
An open adoption can look different for each family, but it simply means there is ongoing communication between birth and adoptive families. With the support of a reputable, experienced adoption agency, you can rest assured that you will be guided throughout the adoption journey and receive support to design your perfect open adoption plan.
Still, it can help to understand open adoption before beginning the adoption process. Read on as we answer some of the most common open adoption questions.
1. How does open adoption work?
Open adoption is a type of adoption plan chosen by you, the expectant/birth parent. You can choose the form and frequency of communication with your child’s adoptive family. Your open adoption agency can support you in this design process.
An open adoption plan is a legally binding contract. Both the adoptive and birth parents sign this agreement. This contract is drawn up by the adoption agency. It protects your contact rights as a birth parent. With the right open adoption agency, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected, and that your adoption will be handled safely and legally.
While the open adoption contract is a legal document, it may be changed over the years to accommodate evolving relationships and the changing needs of a growing child.
2. Can the adoptive family contact the birth mother in a closed adoption?
No. Unlike an open adoption, a closed adoption is exactly as it sounds: Closed for communication. This means there is no personal information or communication shared between either party. Some birth parents choose this type of adoption plan to ensure total privacy and anonymity. If you choose to have a closed adoption, your adoption agency should respect your wishes.
3. What rights do birth mothers retain?
Once a birth mother consents to adoption, their parental rights are terminated. Some states allow for a revocation period, but many do not. Adoption laws can be quite complex and vary by state, which is why it is so important to work with a fully licensed, private adoption agency. This professional can share the updated adoption laws in your state and offer you guidance related to parental rights.
With an open adoption agreement, birth mothers do have the right to communicate with the adoptive family as stated in the contract. It is important to note, however, that the terms must be respected by both parties – birth and adoptive families – and that boundaries must be established. With healthy boundaries and open, honest communication, it is possible to forge a positive and meaningful relationship with your child’s adoptive family.
4. How do I choose adoptive parents?
Your adoption agency can help you find the perfect adoptive family for your child. At Adoptions With Love, expectant/birth parents can browse the adoptive family profiles of couples and individuals ready to adopt. These adoptive families have been pre-approved for adoption with the Home Study. This process ensures that each child is placed in a safe, stable, and healthy home.
Learn More About Open Adoption
5. What does post-adoption contact look like?
The terms of your open adoption agreement are as unique as you and your child. You can choose the form and frequency of contact, and your open adoption agency can help you figure out which type of communication will best meet your needs. You may choose to stay connected via:
- Text messages
- Phone calls
- In-person visits
- Virtual calls
You may choose to use more than one method of communication. You may decide to reconnect:
- Once/month
- Once/year
- Several times a year, etc.
The details can be determined by you, the expectant/birth parent. This is your pregnancy and your child’s adoption. You can specify the exact type of plan that will help you feel comfortable with – and confident in – your adoption decision.
6. Are open adoption agreements legally binding?
Yes. The open adoption agreement is legally binding, but it may be changed over time. Your adoption professional can help you make changes, as needed, over the years. This is why it is vital to choose an open adoption agency that you can trust, makes you feel comfortable, and has a glowing reputation. Adoptions With Love, for example, has been working with expectant/birth parents since 1986, prioritizing the health and well-being of their families. We understand that adoption is a lifelong journey. It does not end once the paperwork is filed. We stay connected with our birth and adoptive families for years, to ensure that continued support is available, as needed.
Learn More About Open Adoption
If you have more open adoption questions, contact Adoptions With Love today. We can offer you the support you deserve 24/7, with no fees, judgment, or pressure. Call 800-722-7731, text (confidentially) 617-777-0072, or contact us online. We can help you design an open adoption plan and support you throughout the entire adoption journey.