Any person facing an unexpected pregnancy has three pregnancy options available to her: abortion, adoption, and parenting. Adoption is, by far, often the least-considered option. Maybe you’re wondering why adoption is not an appealing option to most. It’s hard to say for sure. Probably, the unpopularity of creating an adoption plan is related to cultural influences and heightened awareness of shortcomings that were once a part of the adoption process.
For a variety of unique reasons, many women believe that adoption would be the most emotionally difficult of their three pregnancy options. However, it’s important to consider that the modern-day adoption process looks very different from the old model. A contemporary adoption plan is far more flexible. It creates a lot of space for the birth parent to make key decisions, have autonomy over the process, and choose how much or how little she wants to be involved after the birth. For these reasons and more, making an adoption plan is a good and empowering option for some women.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and navigating a decision-making process, creating an adoption plan may be an option that’s worth looking at, especially if neither abortion nor parenting has seemed like the right fit. No matter which path you end up choosing, it never hurts to gather accurate information on all the possibilities that lay before you. Avenue Women’s Center exists to help women make informed pregnancy decisions with confidence and a firm foundation of emotional support. We provide reliable info on a person’s pregnancy, her pregnancy options, and her available resources at no cost through the services we offer.
Check out our webpage to learn more! We’ve been a trusted provider of first-step pregnancy support for over 40 years!
What Does the Modern Adoption Process Look Like?
As mentioned before, a modern adoption process can be flexible and allow the birth parent(s) to have significant input. A birth parent may choose the adoptive family, for example, and determine how she would like the adoption plan to be structured. There are three kinds of adoption plans that a birth parent may choose from:
Open adoption.
The birth parent(s) and the adoptive family may communicate face-to-face as well as through phone calls and letters. The birth parent has the ability to choose the adoptive family (interested families may complete a bio and provide photographs). She’s able to meet the family before giving birth if she chooses to. After the birth, as long as both parties are on the same page, the birth parent will have the freedom to form a relationship with the child and participate in significant events.
Semi-open adoption.
Contact between the birth parent(s) and adoptive parent(s) may take place through a third-party adoption professional, who would also schedule and attend any visits that take place. A birth parent has autonomy over what kind of information and communication is shared and received.
Closed adoption.
Birth parents tend to choose this model less often than they do the other two, but it’s still a good option for someone who desires complete privacy. The identity of the birth parent(s) is not disclosed, and neither family receives identifying information about the other. However, the birth parent can still choose the adoptive family if she wishes to. No visits or communication take place between the two families before or after the birth.
Adoption is sometimes perceived as a choice to “give up” a baby to strangers. But this view is misguided. The truth is, modern adoption plans are sensitive to the emotional needs of the birth parents, and allow them to have a strong voice both before and after the birth. This is demonstrated by the fact that adoption has become a highly customizable process, which gives the birth parent(s) much of the power.
What Role Could Avenue Women’s Center Have?
Avenue Women’s Center is a first-step pregnancy clinic that’s passionate about educating women on all their pregnancy options. Every set of circumstances is completely unique, and we fully respect the autonomy and wishes of every individual. We’re a safe space and a no-judgment zone. No matter which path(s) you’re considering, we can talk through the processes and risks by your side, and answer your questions.
Avenue is not an adoption agency, and the scope of our medical services is limited. However, we do provide free early pregnancy services that many women find helpful and clarifying during the decision-making process. These services include (but are not limited to) medical-grade pregnancy tests and limited medical ultrasounds. We can also offer referrals and tons of information on additional resources. We’re here to support and uplift you through every step of this journey.
Creating an adoption plan can be a very emotionally challenging process, though it can also be an empowering one. The experience of choosing any pregnancy option and coping with its outcomes is unique for each person. Listen to your instincts and take the time that you need to carefully process your next steps. Remember that support is available, both now and later, no matter which path you take.
Schedule an appointment with Avenue Women’s Center today! It’s natural to have preconceived ideas about your pregnancy options, but there’s no harm in keeping an open mind. Our expert team is here to provide the accurate information that you’re looking for.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.