16 Apr 10 Questions Most Expectant Mothers Ask about Adoption

1. How can adoption be a good thing for my baby and me?

If you are not yet ready to be a parent, you can still give your baby the gift of life by choosing adoption. You can plan positively for your baby’s future by selecting a stable, loving family to care for him or her. After birth, you can see your baby, name your baby, and spend time with your baby. If you choose, you may be able to receive updates on your child’s progress or have ongoing visits throughout your child’s life while you continue your education or career goals. Finally, and most importantly, you can find peace and joy in the fact that you chose life for your baby.

2. Can I select a family for my baby?

Yes! Cradle of Hope has waiting adoptive couples from a variety of backgrounds, and they have been screened and certified to adopt. You can interview and/or meet a family who you feel will be the best parents for your baby.

3. How much contact can I have with my baby after birth and after adoption?

You may have as much contact with your baby at the hospital as you desire. When planning your child’s adoption, you can choose an open adoption plan—one that allows ongoing visits with your child, or you can choose a less open adoption that keeps you informed about your child’s progress through letters and photos. Adoptive families respect the need of birthmothers to know that their child is loved and happy. Finally, if you decide you would not like to have any ongoing contact with your child and the adoptive family, confidential adoption plans are also possible or you may choose a semi-open adoption.

4. How soon after birth can my baby be delivered to the family that I choose?

Most often, the baby is placed with the adoptive family directly from the hospital.

5. How much will my child know about me?

That depends on what type of adoption plan you choose: open, semi-open, or confidential. You will need to provide your complete medical and social history for your child, no matter what type of adoption plan you make. You may choose to share your identity and where you live with the adoptive family. If you’ve made an open adoption plan, you may have ongoing, direct contact with your child and the adoptive family.

The information your child will know about the birthfather depends on his relationship with you and your counselor. Most birthfathers give their complete medical and social history, recognizing how important it is for the child. In some cases, though, the only information available about the birthfather is what the birthmother provides.

6. Does the birthfather have any rights to the child?

Yes, both you and the birthfather have rights to your child. If you disagree about adoption or you no longer have a relationship with him, Cradle of Hope will work with the birthfather and/or the courts to notify him of his rights.

7. Can my child find me if he or she wants to search for me someday?

The law in your state determines when and how your child may access the information in the adoption file. Cradle of Hope will explain the current laws as they apply to your particular adoption plan.

8. How can I be sure my child will be well cared for?

Adoptive families approved by Cradle of Hope must meet standards including no criminal or child abuse record, stable financial and health situations, a nice home, gainful employment and appropriate adoptive parenting education and training. Cradle of Hope has completed a thorough assessment of potential adoptive families. Prior to finalizing the adoption, a caseworker will make home visits to ensure the child’s well-being. In an open adoption, you will be able to see for yourself how well your child is cared for and how much he or she is loved through your ongoing relationship with your child and the adoptive family.

9. Do I need an attorney, or do I pay my adoption agency to assist me with the adoption?

You do not need an attorney at this point but one will be provided free of charge if you request one. No adoption costs are charged to you. The adoption agency will handle all the legal details for you and the birthfather.

10. Does the adoption agency offer assistance with medical and living expenses while I am making an adoptive plan?

Assistance with medical and living expenses is available through Cradle of Hope. In most situations, you will need a letter from your doctor, indicating that you are unable to work or support yourself due to the pregnancy and/or delivery.