Are you considering adoption?
It is always good to have options in life, especially when the decision impacts your future. Making an adoption plan is one option for your unplanned pregnancy. It takes a lot of support and courage to make this choice, but sometimes the most challenging decisions we have to make in life are the best ones we’ve ever made.
What Is Adoption?
Adoption is the legal process of transferring the rights and responsibilities of being a parent from a birth couple to an adoptive couple. It is a permanent decision for everyone.
Myths About Adoption
There are many misconceptions about the adoption process. Today, the process of placing a child for adoption is an entirely valid alternative parenting option. Here are some of the adoption myths you may have heard:
Adoption Myth #1
People will think I’m selfish and not taking responsibility for my child. Nothing could be further from the truth. A responsible woman chooses the safest and most loving option for her child.
Adoption Myth #2
My child will hate me because I chose adoption. With an open adoption plan, you have the opportunity to tell your child, as they grow, that you chose adoption because you wanted the very best for them.
Adoption Myth #3
I will regret the decision for the rest of my life. None of the choices for your unplanned pregnancy are easy, adoption included. Take your time to choose the right adoptive couple, make sure the adoption agency you choose offers counseling and a strong support system, and most importantly, learn as much as possible about the process to make a confident decision.
Adoption Myth #4
I’ll be giving my baby away to strangers. Potential adoptive couples go through careful screening. Background checks, fingerprinting, home studies, and answering multiple questions are part of the process. The couple you choose will not be strangers.
Types of Adoption Plans
There are three main types of adoption: open, closed, and semi-open. Each refers to the level of contact you want with the adoptive parents during and after the adoption process.
Open Adoption
With open adoption, you and the adoptive couple you choose exchange identifying information. Together, you decide on a comfortable level of communication during and after the adoption.
Closed Adoption
If you wish to remain anonymous, make a closed adoption plan. Your adoption specialist chooses the adoptive couple based on your requests, but the two parties do not communicate directly.
Semi-Open Adoption
You and the potential adoptive couple have contact only through a third party, such as your adoption agency. You may know one another’s first names but share no other identifying information.
Is Adoption Right For You?
If you are considering this parenting option, you must learn as much as possible about the process, the legal requirements, and your rights. LifeNet offers free consultations on your adoption options and referrals to reputable adoption agencies. Make an appointment to discuss this option today.