When you think about adoption, what do you imagine? If you envision a woman placing her baby on an unknown doorstep, this is understandable. Many older movies depict adoption as a secretive act, where the mother and baby don’t know anything about each other. However, modern adoption couldn’t be further from this outdated depiction.

If you’re thinking about adoption for your pregnancy, it’s important to know that adoption is a pregnancy choice that’s full of options. Adoption isn’t “giving up” your baby like some people believe; instead, adoption is giving your child hope and a future.

How Does Adoption Work?

When you choose adoption, you will work with an adoption agency or attorney (an attorney is a good option if you already know the adoptive family). The agency or attorney will take your goals and desires for the adoption process into account and ensure that all your questions are answered. They will also work with you to create an adoption plan, which is a customizable document that outlines the type of adoption you want.

Although adoption plans are customizable, they fall into one of three categories:

• Open adoption: Like the name implies, this is the most open and flexible option. With open adoption, you get to choose the adoptive family, and you also get to decide how much contact you want to have with the adoptive family and child and in what ways (for example, you can choose if you want to communicate via email, over the phone, in person, etc.). Open adoption allows you to build a relationship with the adoptive family and child.
• Semi-open adoption: This is similar to open adoption, but all communication is mediated by a third party (like the adoption agency or attorney). This enables you to protect your identifying information while maintaining a relationship with the adoptive family and child.
• Closed adoption: Closed adoptions are rare today. With closed adoption, you won’t know anything about the adoptive family and child, and they won’t know anything about you.

Is Adoption Right for Me?

Deciding whether adoption is right for you can be difficult, but the following questions can help you get started:

• What questions do I still have about adoption?
• What most concerns me when it comes to adoption?
• What might my life look like if I choose adoption?
• How might I feel if I choose adoption?

Next Steps

You’re not alone as you navigate your pregnancy options. At Choices of the Heart, we’re here for you. While we don’t provide adoption services, we’re here to give you information and the space to ask questions. We can also refer you to reputable adoption agencies in the area. Contact us today to schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment.