25 Nov Putting a Baby Up for Adoption: What All Mothers Should Know

Making an adoption plan for your child is just that: a plan for a secure and bright future. When a pregnant woman decides that “putting the baby up for adoption” is the right choice for her and her baby, she is putting her child’s needs above her own. This is a brave and selfless decision, rooted in love and thoughtfulness. Adoption gives expectant/birth mothers the power to take control of their situation. While this pregnancy may have been unplanned, you have the opportunity to make a plan for the future and give your child a life that is more secure than the one you can provide at this time.

The phrase “putting baby up for adoption” is dated language that is no longer used by the adoption community. Today, we say “placing for adoption” or “making an adoption plan” because adoption means making a plan for your child’s life. Another reason “putting baby up for adoption” or “giving up baby for adoption” is not used is because it simply is not true. Making a thoughtful adoption plan for your child is anything but giving up. Adoption allows you to give your child a better life than you can provide at this time. You are ensuring you’re your baby is raised in a safe, loving, stable home that is full of opportunity and support.  You are making this brave choice and you are in control of your plan. Putting your baby up for adoption can also mean that you and your child will have a brighter future ahead. You will have the chance to pursue your own goals while your child is raised by a wonderful loving family.

Before you make any decision regarding your pregnancy, you should know that adoption is always an option for you, no matter your circumstances. It is never too late to make an adoption plan. Whether you just found you are pregnant, are in your third trimester, or you have already given birth, you can make the decision to place your child for adoption. With the help of Cradle of Hope Adoption Center, expectant/birth mothers can also select their child’s adoptive family. This often helps expectant/birth mothers find peace and comfort in their decision, knowing that their child will be raised in a safe, stable, and loving home.

At Cradle of Hope, expectant/birth mothers receive comprehensive care and support throughout the adoption journey. We offer a wide range of free services including:

• Financial support which includes assistance with utilities, phone, maternity clothing, and other necessities, as needed.
• Designing your adoption plan. We understand that each person has different needs. We offer you the opportunity to choose and meet the couple that will adopt your baby.
• Housing assistance. We can pay a deposit and several months of rent.
• Counseling services by compassionate and experienced professionals to assist you in planning for your future and that of your baby.
• Medical care. If you do not already have a doctor, we will help you find a doctor who understands your emotional and physical needs and your adoption plan. The full services of a hospital with a supportive staff will be there for you at the time of delivery. Cradle of Hope will cover any uninsured medical expenses when you complete the adoption.
• Legal assistance provided by experienced lawyers who specialize in adoption. Making sure that the rights of all those involved in the adoption process are respected and upheld is our utmost priority.
• Ongoing contact through pictures and letters from the adoptive family of your child over the years. These letters and pictures are always available to you if and when you want them. You are also welcome to send letters, pictures or gifts to the child and the adoptive family. There is also the ability to design an open adoption with ongoing direct communication and meetings. The choices are yours.

If you are pregnant and considering adoption, contact Cradle of Hope at 301-587-4400 or 703-352-4806 or 202-466-0973 during business hours, or call or text us anytime at 301-905-9999, or email us at cradle@cradlehope.org. We are ready to help you through the adoption process and beyond.