12 Jun The Top 5 Adoption Myths About Women Placing Their Children

Adoption myths shown in the media can be harsh and can make choosing adoption for your baby difficult. It can be easy to forget what the adoption is about: creating a family. If you’re thinking about adoption, we want to share the truth on the top five adoption myths about choosing adoption for your child.

Myth #1: Birth mothers end up regretting their decision.

In the adoption process, you, the birth mother, have rights and power. You have the right to choose the adoptive couple for your baby and to stay in contact with your child as they grow up. We’ve heard many stories from birth mothers that having a say in their adoption plan makes them feel more confident about their decision to place.

Myth #2: It’s selfish to give your baby up for adoption

Choosing adoption for your baby or child is the least selfish decision that you can make. It doesn’t mean that you don’t love your child. It literally means the exact opposite: you love them enough to give them the upbringing you know they deserve. If you don’t have the resources or aren’t ready to be a parent, choosing adoption is the most loving thing you can do.

Myth #3: Most birth mothers are in their teens.

A common belief is that most birth mothers choosing to give up a baby in the adoption process are still in high school. The truth is that most women choosing adoption are in their 20s or 30s. Many already have a child and realize they can’t afford another, so they choose adoption.

Myth #4: Adopted children grow up feeling rejected

This is a widespread adoption myth. The truth is that your child will grow up knowing about their adoption story. They’ll know that you made an adoption decision out of love, and because you wanted your child to have a bright future.

Myth # 5: I won’t know who’s raising my child

In today’s modern adoptions, you’ll be talking to, meeting with, and hand-picking the adoptive family for your baby. You can pick a family who will raise your child in the way that you wish. Plus, it’s up to you how much contact you want to have with your child and their adoptive parents in the future. You have the right to be in contact with your child and family as much as you’d like, including emails, letters, photos, social media updates, and even visits.

For more information on adoption, contact Cradle of Hope at 301-587-4400.