Thinking About Adoption?
Often, when faced with an unplanned pregnancy, a woman thinks she’s only got two options, abortion or parenting. Actually, there is a third option. For some women, their age, maturity level, financial ability, or home environment doesn’t allow them to parent. Not wanting to choose abortion, their next option is adoption. Take a closer look at the possibility of making an adoption plan for your child.
Questions To Ask Yourself About Adoption
Making an adoption plan is a difficult decision, but it is sometimes the best option. Adoption can truly bring something beautiful and special out of a difficult situation. As you consider adoption, ask yourself these questions:
- Am I too young to parent?
- Do I want to finish school or continue my career?
- How do I truly feel about abortion?
- Do I have the support to raise this baby on my own?
- What do I know about adoption?
Making An Adoption Plan
You may have heard people talk about adoption as “giving up” a baby. Nothing can be further from the truth when making an adoption plan. As a birth mother, you decide how you want your child to be raised. A qualified adoption specialist will ask you whether you want other siblings, a particular religion, a specific financial status, and many other questions. By the time you and an adoptive family have been “matched,” you will know as much as possible about your child’s new family.
Types Of Adoption Plans
There is no right or wrong when it comes to making an adoption plan for your child. The plan you choose has to be right for you. There are basically three different plans, open, closed, and semi-open.
Open
In an open adoption, you and the adoptive family exchange identifying information, and your communication is done directly with each other. You have the opportunity to set up meetings, be a part of your child’s life, and participate in family events. Many women find comfort in knowing their child is happy and healthy.
Closed
A closed adoption is just what it sounds like. Everyone remains completely anonymous. The adoption specialist you choose will select the family for you. Some women prefer a closed adoption because it helps them to move on.
Semi-Open
Finally, a semi-open adoption is somewhere in between an open and closed adoption. Certain information is exchanged between the adoptive family and the birth mother, but any correspondence the two have is handled through the adoption specialist. You’ll keep a measure of privacy but still know how your child is doing.
Is Adoption Right For You and Your Child?
No one would ever say choosing adoption is easy. It’s a tough decision because you care. You want your child to have the best future possible, and sometimes that requires another family. That’s okay.
There’s so much more to learn about this option. We can provide you with information as well as referrals to agencies. Together, we can discuss if making an adoption plan is right for you.