What Do You Think About Adoption?
Many women are confused about adoption. They hear horror stories about mothers being forced to “give up” their children. The truth is, mothers who choose to place their child for adoption give them a better life than they could provide.
It is a selfless, loving, yet hard decision to make. You love your child and want what’s best for them. That’s why adoption may be the best option.
You Are the One in Control
Adoption is very different today than it was a few decades ago. Before, most adoptions were completely closed. A mother had no idea who had adopted her child, and the child had little to no information about their biological family. Women wondered if their children were loved, and adoptees struggled with their identity.
Today, expectant mothers and birth mothers have control over the adoption process. They can select the adoptive couple who will raise their child and determine the amount of contact they wish to have. Take a closer look at the available adoption plans.
Adoption Plans
There are basically three adoption plans to choose from: open, semi-open, and closed. The majority of adoptions today are open or semi-open.
Open Adoption
With an open adoption, you and the couple you choose exchange identifying information. You may share addresses, phone numbers, or email addresses. You determine how you wish to communicate with them and can arrange in-person visits and stay in touch as much as you like.
Semi-Open Adoption
A semi-open adoption provides a little more privacy. It is also known as a mediated adoption plan. You and the adoptive couple you select stay in contact, but all communication is handled through your adoption coordinator. You do not have direct contact.
Closed Adoption
By being closed, you and the adoptive couple have no contact with each other. The courts seal all the adoption records, and you and your child have no future contact.
Additional Facts About Adoption
Here are a few other considerations:
- You pay nothing to place your child for adoption.
- You can revoke your decision within 72 hours after the birth of your child.
- Receive adoption counseling without coercion or pressure.
- If uninsured, some or all of your medical expenses may be covered.
- Provided with legal coverage.
- Other pregnancy-related expenditures may be provided.
Although The Women’s Centers is not a licensed child-placing agency, we can provide referrals to reputable adoption coordinators. Contact us to learn more.