28 Mar Putting A Baby Up For Adoption : The Benefits Of Using An Adoption Agency For Birth Mothers
At Cradle of Hope, we know that a woman’s decision to place her child for adoption is not taken lightly, which is why it is important for expectant mothers to explore all options available to them. One option you have is adoption, and with adoption comes the choice to work with an adoption agency who can help you navigate the adoption process.
What are the benefits for pregnant women when working with an adoption agency?
For pregnant women navigating the adoption process, there are many reasons why working with an adoption agency is beneficial. One of the biggest benefits is that working with an adoption agency provides a safe space to seek guidance, explore adoption, and get answers to your questions. Adoption agencies are prepared and ready to offer the support you need during this very sensitive time in your life. Additionally, adoption agencies like Cradle of Hope are available 24/7 if you have any questions, need support, or even go into labor in the middle of the night. We understand that adoption can sometimes feel isolating, scary, and confusing. Knowing there is someone you can reach out to who is trustworthy and knowledgeable can make a huge difference in your adoption experience and help you feel less alone.
Another benefit of working with an adoption agency is that we have pre-screened, qualified families who are waiting to be connected with a birthmother. On Cradle of Hope’s website, you are able to browse the profiles of families who are ready to bring a child into their home. All Cradle of Hope waiting parents are home study approved, which means they’ve been thoroughly screened and trained for adoptive parenting by a licensed adoption agency. For this reason, you do not need to independently vet a potential adoptive family since Cradle of Hope families are well qualified to bring a baby into their home.
Last but not least, adoption agencies are experts on all things adoption. They understand how to navigate the legal, financial, and interpersonal aspects of adoption and are an invaluable resource to guide you through the adoption process. Moreover, many adoption agencies have a network of trusted lawyers and social workers that can act as additional guides throughout the process. All of these professionals can work together to ensure that you receive all of the support and assistance they are entitled to.
What can a birthmother expect during the adoption process?
It’s no secret that the adoption process can be daunting, especially for prospective birthmothers. At Cradle of Hope, we work to demystifying the adoption process. If you are pregnant and want to explore your options, the first thing you should do is call Cradle of Hope to get answers to any questions you have that will help you make a decision on whether pursuing adoption is the best path for you. While you are exploring your options, you should also begin prenatal care to ensure the health of you and your baby.
Once you have decided to work with Cradle of Hope, we will help you create an adoption plan that reflects what you want and need from the adoption. This is a time where you can decide if you would like an open, semi-open, or closed adoption. Once you have this plan in place, you can then start communicating with families you feel would be a good fit for you and your baby. An adoption plan allows you to feel empowered in your choices and decisions throughout the process. You will receive ongoing support from Cradle of Hope throughout the adoption process, and you will be able to communicate with the adoptive family as much or as little as you’d like.
After the baby is born, he or she will be placed with the adoptive family you have chosen and will go home directly from the hospital with them. You have the choice to spend time with the baby, the adoptive family, and/or a Cradle of Hope social worker at the hospital. From there, you will sign the legal documents indicating your consent to the adoption of your baby and the formal adoption process will begin.
Can birthmothers be involved in choosing the adoptive family?
As your baby’s biological mother, you are responsible for making decisions for your baby’s future. For this reason, you are encouraged to choose the adoptive family you feel would be a good fit for you and your baby. Cradle of Hope can help you choose a family and navigate your communication with them. When choosing a prospective adoptive family, you should ask yourself questions like: Do you prefer the family to be in a specific geographic area? Are you open to a single-parent household or do you prefer a two-parent household? Do you prefer the family to already have children? And what life experiences would you like your baby to have growing up? Remember: only you can choose the right family for your baby, so it is ok to think about the big questions when navigating a connection with a family.
Can birthmothers receive financial assistance during the adoption process?
Finances can be a big concern for women who are expecting a baby, and it is only natural to wonder if financial assistance is available a part of the adoption process. In DC, Maryland and Virginia, a birthmother can receive financial assistance from the adoptive family for a variety of pregnancy-related expenses including rent, food, utilities, transportation, maternity clothes, medical fees, and legal fees, so long as you have a note from your doctor indicating that you are unable to work due to your pregnancy or delivery. Cradle of Hope will help you to receive financial assistance and determine a solution that ensures you will be adequately taken care of throughout your pregnancy.