1.How can adoption be good for my baby and me?
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 for your
baby's future by selecting a stable, loving family to care for you child.
You can avoid the trauma, heartbreak and loss of life that abortion brings.
You can be proud that you chose life for your baby.
2.Can I choose a family for my baby?
Yes! With most adoption agencies, you can chose the
parents including a family friend, acquaintance or someone recommended to you.
You may choose from couples screened for you that have been waiting to become
parents. You can be as involved as you choose to be.
3.How much contact will there be with my baby after the adoption?
As much or as little as you want. Open adoption
allows ongoing visits with your child. Or, if you choose, with an open
adoption letters and pictures can be exchanged. If you prefer not to have
ongoing contact, confidential adoptions are available too.
4.How soon after birth can my baby go to the parents I choose?
This depends on your preference, the legal aspects of the
adoption which vary in different states, and the cooperation of the birthfather.
5.How much will my child know about me?
This depends on the type of adoption. The types are
open, semi-open and confidential. No matter what type of adoption, your
medical and social history will be provided. You may choose to share your
identity with the family or to keep it private. In an open adoption, you
may have on-going contact with the family.
6.Does the birthfather have any rights?
Yes. If there is a disagreement about adoption, or if
you no longer have a relationship with the birthfather, your agency can work
with him or with the courts on your behalf.
7.Will my child have information about
the birthfather?
Hopefully yes. This depends on the birthfather's
cooperation. Most birthfathers give their complete medical and social
history; understanding the importance of such information to the child. At
other times, only the information you provide will be available.
8.Can my child find me if he or she
wants to search someday?
The laws in each individual state determine when and how
the child will have access to information in the adoption file. With your
initial written consent the child will have access to your identity. In a
confidential adoption, the state may not release your identifying information.
9.How can I be sure my child won't be
neglected or abused?
Approved adoptive families must meet the standards set by
the agency and by yourself. Every attempt is made to provide a safe and
healthy atmosphere for your baby. Prior to the adoption, home visits are
made to ensure the child's well-being. In an open adoption, you can see
for yourself the ongoing safety of your child
10.Do I need an attorney or have to pay
anything?
You do not need an attorney and there should be no costs
to you
