Adoption
"Be strong, be fearless, be beautiful. And believe that anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you." Misty Copeland
You don’t feel ready to be a parent, and abortion may or may not be an option for you. Our culture often tells you that those are your only two options, parenting or abortion. But, you do have another choice. To place your baby with an adoptive family.
We all know there’s a lot stigma and negative perceptions surrounding adoption. However, adoption can be one of the most selfless and loving decisions anyone can make. Adoptions are happening all around us without us even noticing! 1 out of every 25 families with children have an adopted child. Approximately 140,000 children are adopted in the US every year. In fact, for every child adopted in the US there are 36 families waiting for a child. The stigma is starting to fade.
If you feel like neither parenting nor abortion are right for you, here’s some info to help you to learn more about modern domestic adoption.
What is private adoption vs. agency adoption?
What is open vs. closed adoption?
What are birth parent rights?
If you’re considering making an adoption plan for your child, it’s important for you to understand your rights and responsibilities as you begin the adoption process. Birth father rights vary widely state to state. In most states, the rights of birth fathers are often different than the rights of birth mothers. Adoption laws vary from state to state, so all birth parents should speak with an experienced adoption attorney or adoption agency for more information on the adoption laws in your state.
Where do I start?
The first place to start is to talk with an adoption professional. In many states, that will be an adoption agency with an adoption counselors or an adoption attorney. Just meeting and talking with an adoption professional does not obligate you to place your child for adoption, and should not cost you any money, but it will help you to evaluate adoption among your other options.
Where can I go to hear real stories about adoption?
A great place to find testimonies from birth parents, adopted children and adoptive families is bravelove.org. While this may be an overwhelming time for you, know there are people who have been where you are and can help. Even by simply reading this post, you are already equipping yourself to make the best decision for your pregnancy.
