If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may be asking yourself, “Should I give up my baby up for adoption?” or even, “How do I give my baby up for adoption?” These are common questions asked by women in your circumstance. Choosing adoption is not an easy thing to do, but it is one of the most selfless and positive choices you can make for your baby. This is why we do not say “give up for adoption” instead, we say “make an adoption plan” or “choose an adoptive family“.
The phrase “give baby up for adoption” dates back to the mid-1800s, when orphaned children were forced onto trains and quite literally “put up” on a platform to be examined by prospective adoptive families. This was, of course, a very dark era in the world of adoption, and the process is completely different today.
Choosing adoption is not giving a baby up for adoption. In fact, it is quite the opposite. By choosing adoption, you are choosing to make a thoughtful plan for your baby’s life. Although you did not plan to have this baby, you can certainly plan a bright future for him or her through adoption. This is a responsible and loving decision that requires great consideration and strength. It requires putting your baby’s best interests first. By considering adoption, you are thinking about giving your child a life that you are unable to provide at this time; one with opportunity, love, education, and a lifetime of love. This is brave and thoughtful and the opposite of giving up.
It is important to remember, when considering adoption, that this is YOUR decision. No one can pressure you or force you to place your baby with an adoptive family. Only you know what is best for you and your baby. However, there are professionals you can speak with to learn more about your options and the benefits of each. Adoption Choices of Texas offers free counseling that is available whenever you need and we will respect any choice you make.
Adoption Choices of Texas understands that adoption is a very personal and emotional process. It is not a quick or easy decision. It takes time. Here, we give you the opportunity to hand-select an adoptive family that you want to raise your child. You can also make an adoption plan that works for you, with support from us at every step of the way.
Making an adoption plan means making a plan for your baby’s life. As an expectant/birth mother, you have many options when it comes to an adoption plan. You can choose an open adoption, semi-open adoption, or fully closed adoption plan.
Just as no two people are alike, no two adoption plans will look exactly the same. Some expectant/birth mothers take comfort in knowing that adoption does not mean a final “goodbye” forever. Today, 95 percent of adoptions are “open adoption plans.” Open adoption can take on many meanings, but it simply means that you will maintain ongoing communication with your child’s adoptive family through the next 18 years. This might involve email updates, occasional phone calls, or even in-person visits.
Others choose to make a semi-open adoption plan, wherein they meet their chosen adoptive family in person, and receive updates and letters through their adoption agency over the years. However, openness is not right for everyone. If you would like to keep your information private after birth, or are not ready to keep in touch with your child’s family — a closed adoption plan may be right for you. Whatever you decide, Adoption Choices of Texas keeps photos and letters on file, should a birth mother change her mind about her adoption plan down the road.
As you consider making an adoption plan, you should keep in mind that you are certainly not “giving up” or “putting your baby up” in any way. You are making a positive and loving choice, with your child’s best interest at heart. At the end of the day, this is YOUR call, and you are in charge. The skilled professionals at Adoption Choices of Texas have been working with birth mothers for years. We understand the love, care, and commitment that goes into making an adoption plan for a child. We are here to support and guide you through this journey. We can assist you every step of the way, offering emotional and financial assistance.
To learn more about making an adoption plan with Adoption Choices of Texas , please click here. If you would like to talk about your options on the phone, we are available 24/7 at 855-304-4673 (HOPE). You can also text us confidentially at 512-201-4400.
