Adoptions have changed dramatically in the last few decades. No longer are you “giving up” your baby. You choose the plan that is right for both of you. You’re in the driver’s seat. You decide everything.
Adoption is a difficult decision. Like every choice you make with your unexpected pregnancy, it involves many different emotions. It’s a process that can last months as you decide what you are looking for in an adoptive family. Remember, no one can ever pressure you to make a plan. You may be asking yourself a lot of questions such as:
If you’re wondering how to begin the process, contact Avenue Women’s Center here. We’ll answer your questions and help you get started.
Open adoption means you and the adoptive family have access to one another through face-to-face meetings, phone calls, and letters. Potential adoptive families fill out a bio with photos and information for you to review. Once you’ve chosen a family, you’ll have the option to meet them even before giving birth. Afterward, you’ll have the opportunity to be a part of the child’s life and participate in major events if both parties agree.
In a closed adoption, your identity remains completely anonymous. You can still choose the adoptive family, but you’ll have no interaction with them before or after the birth. No identifying information is given to either the birth family or the adoptive family. There is complete privacy. Only after the child is an adult can they attempt to find you.
Very few adoptions are completely closed today. Research has shown there are many psychological benefits for all parties involved to have a semi-open or completely open adoption. A semi-open adoption means the communication you do have will be through a third-party adoption professional. You choose how much information and communication you would like to share and receive. Any visits are also scheduled and supervised by the adoption professional.
Adoption is a very emotionally-charged process for everyone involved. Like any choice you make for your unexpected pregnancy, you will experience grief and loss. Your journey forward will take courage. There are a number of support groups to counsel and assist the first parents (birth mom & birth dad), and we will make sure you have the emotional support you need.
There are many reasons to choose adoption for your baby. Perhaps you’re not ready to be a parent, you are personally opposed to abortion, or you don’t have the financial means to care for yourself and your child. Your best option may be to begin making an adoption plan. In the state of Illinois, any minor above the age of 14 may consent to form an adoption plan for their child.
Let’s talk about this very important decision and see if it’s right for you. Schedule a time to talk more.
