Many people have a misleading idea of adoption. They have heard harsh stories about how newborn babies are ripped from their mother's arms and placed with strangers. Some think, "How could you go through your life never knowing what happened to your child?" Adoption is very different today from even twenty years ago. You have the right to select your baby's parents, meet them and even keep in touch over the years. These changes have made the adoption option much easier to consider.

There are many reasons to consider adoption. Maybe you know in your heart that you can't take care of your baby. There's not enough time, money, or help. Maybe you already have children and one more baby would be too much stress on you! Perhaps you are just afraid and want to know more about this choice.

The good news about your situation is that there are many loving couples that would love to be parents, but can't due to infertility. They are waiting for a person like you - a person that wants to give a baby life, and share that baby with them. They want to love you and your baby and provide a strong and stable environment where your child can flourish.

You are doing the right thing by researching all of your options. Adoption is a choice that you need to think about carefully, but if you can't parent, no matter what the reason, adoption may be the right choice for you! Our center would be glad to provide you with a referral to several adoption agencies in our area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adoption:

There is no cost to you for adoption. This center can provide you with a referral to several agencies that will help you free of charge. Many agencies will work with the adoptive parents to pay for all your pregnancy-related expenses as well.

Yes! Most agencies have many different families you can choose from. These families have been screened and approved. There are additional options such as choosing a friend or someone who has been recommended to you.

How often will I get to see my baby after birth and after adoption?

You may have as much contact with your baby at the hospital as you desire. When planning your child's adoption, you can choose an open adoption plan that allows ongoing visits with your child, or you can choose semi-open adoption that keeps you informed about your child's progress through letters and pictures. If you prefer not to have any contact with your child or the adoptive family, confidential plans are also possible.

How much will my child know about me?

Again this is up to you and the adoption plan you make.  However, we would encourage you to at least pass on your medical and social history to your child. You may also choose to share your identity and where you live with the adoptive family.  Or if you have an open adoption, your child and adoptive family can have ongoing access to you and what’s happening in y our life. 

Does the father have any rights?

The birth father’s rights are equal to yours.  If you disagree on adoption or you no longer have a relationship with him, your agency will work with the court to determine if his rights can be terminated.

Can my child find me if he or she wants to search some day?

At the time of the adoption, your can choose to have an open file.  If you do, your child will have access to your identity and your agency will assist in the search.  If you choose a closed adoption, your identity will remain anonymous.

How can I be sure my child will not be neglected or abused?

Adoptive families approved by your agency must meet standards that are shared with you.  In an open adoption you will see for yourself how well your child is cared for and how much your child is loved.

What is an “open” adoption?

With an open adoption plan you may be able to:

• Meet potential adoptive families before making a decision..
• Exchange information (names and addresses) with the adoptive family at the appropriate time.
• There may be ongoing contact in the form of: attending the birth of the child, attending physician visits together, visiting the home, and gathering as extended family members during special occasions, etc.
• Have direct correspondence between you and the family.
• Contact each other directly by telephone.

In a semi-open plan you choose a family from written non-identifying material provided by the agency.

• An agency or third party mediates the contact between you and the adoptive family before and after the birth
• You will know the adoptive family by their first names only
• Adoptive parents may be present at the birth and may meet you before the birth
• All correspondence is sent through the agency or third party
• Post-placement meetings are arranged and supervised by the mediator
• Adoptive parents often share the child's pictures and letters with you, but may also include gifts, videotapes, etc.

The timing of your child's placement depends on three factors:

• What you prefer to be the time of placement
• Legal aspects of adoption, which may vary from state to state
• The cooperation of the birthfather

Many women want their baby placed with the adoptive family directly from the hospital, but you may prefer to place your baby in temporary care while you consider adoption.