Adoption Options
You’re unexpectedly pregnant and not entirely sure that you’re prepared to parent. Maybe you had other plans or you don’t have a supportive partner. It’s completely understandable that you might be feeling conflicted.
Parenting is a lifelong commitment with great responsibility and privilege. It can be wonderful and challenging. There are a lot of support resources available for anyone desiring to parent but feeling alone.
Maybe you’re wondering about adoption but unsure about all the options. Adoption is a beautiful way to give your child a loving home. A woman who chooses to place her child for adoption is not “giving away” or “giving up” her child, rather she is conscientiously allowing another family to raise her child.
“Parenting is a lifelong commitment with great responsibility and privilege. It can be wonderful and challenging. There are a lot of support resources available for anyone desiring to parent but feeling alone. ”
Women who choose adoption for their baby are empowered to make their own decisions. Here are some basics when it comes to adoption options:
Open Adoption
If you want to maintain contact with your child and her adoptive parents, this option may be the best fit for you. You choose the family that you feel is the best fit for you and your baby. You can meet and get to know them before deciding. After the baby is born, you can continue contact if you choose. It’s common for birth parents and adoptive parents to send texts or emails, exchanging updates and sharing pictures. In addition, you may request ongoing visits with them as your child grows.
Closed Adoption Option
If you want, you can choose a closed adoption. Either you or the agency would choose a couple to adopt your baby. The adoptive parents would receive no identifying information about you, nor you about them. If you would like, you can receive pictures and information as your baby grows.
Anonymous Surrender – Safe Delivery Option
In all states, there are laws allowing for the anonymous surrender of a newborn by his or her parent. This option is often referred to as ‘Safe Haven’ or ‘Safe Delivery’. Your baby goes immediately to a pre-approved adoptive family. These laws are meant to provide safety for both you and your baby. You aren’t required to give any information about yourself or the father of the baby. Michigan law allows you to anonymously surrender your baby at a hospital, police station, or fire station.
“A woman who chooses to place her child for adoption is not ‘giving away’ or ‘giving up’ her child, rather she is conscientiously allowing another family to raise her child.”
Feeling conflicted or uncertain about adoption is completely normal. It’s important to give yourself grace and space to explore your feelings, and to make a decision that is right for you. If you're feeling overwhelmed, talking to a counselor, therapist, or trusted friend or family member can help you process your feelings.
Text an adoption specialist at (248) 283-4673 for free, confidential advice, or call 616-667-0677.
