16 May Benefits of Open Adoption

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, know that you’re not alone and that you have options. One of those options is adoption. However, when it comes to choosing what type of adoption you’d like to have, it can sometimes be difficult to determine which type of plan may be best suited for you. While each adoption journey is unique, the benefits of open adoption are hard to refute.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the benefits of an open-adoption plan to consider as you continue your journey through adoption.

1. An Easier Transition for Birth Mothers: Birth mothers can experience a smoother transition through an open adoption plan. This plan provides the opportunity to keep in touch with the adoptive parents and to begin establishing a continued relationship with them. The ability to connect with the adoptive parents early on can help to ease concerns as birth mothers may receive photos and other updates about the child’s transition to their home.
2. Provide Sense of Identity: It is common for adopted children to experience an identity crisis at some point in their lifetime. Adoptees frequently question the circumstances surrounding their placement and sometimes assume the worst. An open-adoption plan can assist to resolve these identity inquiries by providing an opportunity for connection between birth mother and child. In open adoptions, the child grows up aware of their adoption placement and birthmothers can communicate with the child about their decision to place. This relationship can help adoptees establish a sense of identity within their adoption story and have a greater and more positive sense of self.
3. Avoid a Medical Mystery: In addition to providing a child with a greater sense of identity, establishing a relationship through an open adoption plan can provide your child and his adoptive family with important medical information. We all have heard our doctors ask, “Do you have any family history of…” However, many adoptees with closed adoption plans have no information to give their healthcare providers. By choosing open adoption, the adoptee and the adoptive family are better equipped to handle any medical situation that may arise.
4. Peace of Mind: Perhaps one of the most important aspects of open adoption is the peace of mind that it can bring to birth mothers, hopeful adoptive parents and adoptees. The ability to establish relationships between all parties can truly make all the difference. Birthmothers can have peace of mind knowing that their child is growing, succeeding, and being loved unconditionally by their adoptive family. Adoptees, on the other hand, have a better understanding of who they are, where they came from, and how the decision to place them for adoption was one made out of love.

An open adoption plan allows for connections and communications between the birth mother, adopted child, and adoptive family.  If you are considering giving a baby up for adoption  and would like to learn more about open adoption, contact Cradle of Hope at 301-587-4400 or by text at 301-905-9999,