About Adoption

Your Questions Answered

Can adoption be a good choice for me and my baby?

If you are not ready to be a parent, you can still give your baby the gift of life by choosing adoption. You can plan your baby's future by selecting a stable, loving family to care for your baby and be proud of your decision. At birth you can see your baby, name your baby, and love your baby. If you choose, you can get updates on your child's progress while you continue your education and career goals. Finally, you avoid the trauma and heartache of abortion.

How do I know my baby will have a good home?

Most adoption agencies have many different families you can choose from, and these families have been carefully screened and approved. You can also choose a family friend, acquaintance, or someone who has been recommended to you even in another state.

Did you know..? It is estimated that about 1 million children in the United States live with adoptive parents, and that about 3% of American families include an adopted child. Learn more...

How much contact can I have with my baby after birth and after adoption?

You may have as much contact with your baby at the hospital as is comfortable for you. You can choose an "open adoption" that allows ongoing visits, or you can choose a less open adoption where your updates come through your letter and pictures arranged through your agency. Adoptive families respect your need to know your child is well cared for.

When will the baby go to the parents I choose?

This depends on your choice of when this should happen, the legal aspects of the adoption, and the cooperation of the birth father. Many birth mothers want their baby placed by the time they leave the hospital. Some prefer to place their baby in interim care while they think through their adoption decision.

How much will my child know about me?

We encourage you to pass on medical and social history to your child. You may 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 your 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.

Will my child have information about her/his birth father?

This depends on his cooperation with you and the adoption agency. Some birth fathers give full social and medical history, realizing how important it is for your child to have this. At other times, only the information you give will be passed on.

Can my child find me if he/she wants to search someday?

At the time of the adoption, you can choose to have an open file to your child. If you do, he/she 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 abused or neglected?

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

Is an adoption expensive?

There is no cost to you for adoption. Your adoption agency handles all legal details on your behalf, so you don't need an attorney. Sometimes the adopting parents will help you medical bills, maternity clothes, and other things you may need. Most important, your agency knows your decision was not an easy one to make and will continue to be available to you if you so choose.

Source: "I'm Pregnant: Adoption," Bethany Christian Services, accessed 10-1-2007.