Is Adoption Right for Me?
Maybe you’ve gone back and forth dozens of times between your pregnancy choices. The pressure can seem debilitating at times when it comes to an unplanned pregnancy. Know that you are not alone in your decision-making journey. We are here to give you valuable information about every option – including the process of adoption.
Whether you have never considered adoption or you are interested in adoption, you could be asking yourself…
“How do I know my child will be with a good family?”
“Will I be able to keep in contact with my child?”
“What are the requirements for adoption?”
“What are the costs?”
These are all valid questions to have when considering the adoption process. We at The Pregnancy Resource Center are here to help answer your most pressing adoption questions. The choice of adoption is a scary but brave one.
The types of Adoption
There are three main types of adoption: open, closed, and semi-open adoption. The difference of each lies in how close of a relationship you desire to have with your child and the adoptive family. You get to decide what kind of relationship is best for you.
Open adoption* is the most common type, where in most cases involves sharing all identifying information between the adoptive parents and birth parents. Contact between you and your child could look like in-person visitations, phone calls, letters, sharing photos, or through emails.
Closed adoption conceals information for the birthmother’s privacy. Many times, closed adoptions can include some sharing of photos or letters. It’s all up to you and your adoptive family’s agreement. You or the adoptive family could refuse or accept any information.
Semi-open adoption is rare, but still an option. This type of adoption is done through a mediator – most likely an adoption agency. Photographs and letters can be exchanged, but no identifying information is disclosed. Both the adoptive parents and birth mom in this type of adoption can continue to keep in touch if desired.
Where Do I Begin?
After confirming your pregnancy through lab-quality pregnancy testing and an ultrasound, you will want to decide which adoption plan works for you. If you need help deciding what’s best for you, our team is here to help counsel you and listen. You are stronger than you know.
Adoption Referrals
Gifting someone with a child is one of the most courageous acts someone can do. However, considering adoption can be confusing. There is a lot information to sift through.
We have a network of credible and professional adoption agencies in the area to which we can refer you. In addition to a list of approved agencies, we provide free educational resources. Our services are free and confidential.
Reach out to us today to learn more about this option.
*The benefits of open adoption plans are not legally enforceable in Texas.
