When you think about adoption, what comes to mind? If you imagine a baby being left anonymously on a doorstep, this is understandable since many movies depict adoption this way. However, today’s adoption process couldn’t be further from this image.

Today, adoption is all about choices. You get to choose the adoptive family and whether or not you want to maintain a relationship with the family and your child.

If you’re considering adoption, learning all you can to determine if this is the best option for your situation is essential.

How Does Adoption Work?

When you choose adoption, you will work closely with an adoption coordinator, such as an agency or attorney, to select the adoptive family and create an adoption plan.

If you plan on placing your child with a family member, this is known as “Kinship Adoption.” When you do not know the potential adoptive couple, an agency or attorney can assist you with a private adoption.

What Are the Different Types of Adoption Plans?

An adoption plan is essentially a document that outlines your communication goals within the adoption process.

While adoption plans are customizable, they fall into one of three main categories:

• Open adoption: As the name implies, this option is the most open and flexible. It is the plan you’d choose if you desire open communication between you, the adoptive family, and your child. Most modern adoptions are open and allow you to build a long-term relationship with your child.
• Semi-open adoption: This plan is similar to open adoption, but all communication is mediated between a third party, like the adoption agency or attorney.
• Closed adoption: With this type of adoption plan, you won’t know anything about the adoptive family, and they won’t know anything about you. However, closed adoptions are rare today.

If you’re considering adoption, you will work closely with the adoption agency or attorney to decide what type of adoption plan is best for your adoption desires and goals.

Is Adoption Right For Me?

Ask yourself the following questions as you consider whether making an adoption plan is right for you:

• What do I know about adoption?
• What concerns me most when it comes to adoption?
• How might I feel if I choose adoption?
• What might my life look like if I choose adoption?

You’re Not Alone

Thinking about your pregnancy options can make you feel overwhelmed. But you’re not alone. At True Women’s Center, we’re here for you. While we don’t offer adoption services, we can provide a safe space for you to learn more and ask questions. We can also refer you to reputable adoption agencies in our area.

Contact us today to learn more.