Choosing adoption for your baby is selfless because you’re creating a future full of opportunity, joy and love for your child.

When you’re pregnant and thinking about adoption, it’s normal to have concerns about the process, which is why we’re here to help. Whatever thoughts you have, we’re here to help you process them when you’re pregnant and thinking about adoption.

If you would like to get started with the adoption process, then you can fill out this contact form to get more free information now.

Pregnant and Thinking about Adoption: 5 Common Thoughts

When you find yourself pregnant and considering adoption, there are probably many thoughts going through your head about the adoption process and how it works. But, you’re not alone. It’s common to have thoughts about adoption, as it can be a daunting yet rewarding experience.

We’re here to help you process these thoughts and concerns so you can determine what your next steps might be. Below are five common thoughts you might have when you’re pregnant and thinking about adoption.

1.  I want to give my baby up for adoption, but how do I do that?

One of the first big steps you’ll take when you’re pregnant and thinking about adoption is understanding how the adoption process works. Although you don’t have to be an expert on the process, having a basic understanding can help you decide if adoption is the right choice for you. Remember that putting your baby up for adoption will always be free for you as the prospective birth mother.

The most important steps for putting your child up for adoption include:

• Step 1: Decide that adoption is right for you
• Step 2: Choose an agency and create a plan
• Step 3: Pick an adoptive family
• Step 4: Get to know the adoptive family
• Step 5: Complete the adoption

Adoption for pregnant mothers is a unique journey for everyone involved. Your process will have many distinct twists and turns that aren’t mentioned here. But, generally speaking, these are the big steps required to place a baby up for adoption.

2. Who can help me place my baby for adoption?

There are many adoption professionals that can help you during this life-changing journey. The first and most important professional is an adoption agency.

Adoption agencies provide the required services needed to complete an adoption. National adoption agencies are more prevalent and can provide all the services you need in one place. They also have adoption social workers who are equipped to offer you 24/7 support before, during and after your journey.

No matter what time of day it is, your adoption professional should be there to guide you through the complex emotions of adoption. Also, adoption professionals can provide services such as:

• Free, no-obligation adoption counseling
• Financial assistance for pregnancy and living expenses
• A variety of pre-screened families to choose from
• References to additional professionals, such as counselors or lawyers
• Contact mediation with the adoptive family if you wish
• Post-placement support and counseling
• And much more

If you’re pregnant and thinking about adoption for your baby and would like to speak with an adoption agency, then consider contacting one of the professionals below:

• American Adoptions (1-800-ADOPTION)
• Gladney Center for Adoption
• Beacon House Adoption Services

3. Will I have to pay to place my baby up for adoption?

One thing to remember about the adoption process is that you will never pay to place your baby up for adoption. The financial costs associated with pregnancy and parenting are often one of the motivating factors for people to choose adoption. For prospective birth parents, adoption is always free.

In fact, you’ll be eligible to receive adoption financial assistance. When you’re pregnant and thinking about adoption, your adoption professional understands how expensive unplanned pregnancy can be, which is why they will do their best to ensure you receive all the financial assistance you’re entitled to. This can include living expenses, which cover:

• Rent
• Utilities
• Transportation to doctor’s appointments
• Maternity clothing
• Phone service

4. How will I find the right family for my baby?

The modern adoption process puts you in the driver’s seat, letting you choose exactly how you want your adoption journey to go. This includes choosing the adoptive parents you believe will be the right fit for your baby. When you work with an adoption agency, you can outline the characteristics in an adoptive family that matter most to you.

When you’re pregnant and considering adoption, you can choose a family based on whether they have already children, where they live, their religious affiliation and more. No matter what, the decision is all yours. Working with a good adoption agency is one of the most important steps of finding an adoptive family.

Ask any potential adoption agency how they find families, how many families they work with and what is included in adoptive family profiles. For instance, is it just photos and letters or are there video profiles too? An agency that offers nationwide advertising, a large number of waiting families and adoptive family video profiles will put you in the best position to find the perfect adoptive family for your baby.

5. Will I get to see my child after the adoption has been finalized?

The majority of adoptions today are open adoptions. This means that when you’re pregnant and thinking about adoption for your baby, it isn’t the end of your relationship.

Open adoption relationships can vary depending on your preferences and what you decide in your adoption plan. You can decide just how much contact you want during and after your adoption. From occasional letters, to video calls, to in person meetings, open adoption can be whatever you want it to be.

“In an open adoption, you have to be strong,” birth mother Randi says about her open adoption. “I love still being able to have that connection with Juniper. I get all jittery thinking about it because it’s going to blow my mind when she’s 5 and she starts talking, and I can actually talk to her and have a conversation with her.”

If you’re ready to begin the adoption process, then fill out this contact form to connect with an adoption professional today. We’d be happy to help you begin your adoption journey.