Adoption

Considering Adoption?

Choosing adoption is never easy, and it takes incredible strength and love. For some women, placing their child with a family who can offer the kind of life they envision can be one of the most meaningful and selfless decisions they ever make.


Adoption isn’t one-size-fits-all. You have the power to choose a plan that reflects the level of connection you want—whether that means ongoing contact with the adoptive family and your child, or a more private arrangement.


Whatever path you’re considering, we’re here to walk alongside you with support, information, and respect for your choices. Request an appointment today.

Could Adoption be Right for Me?

Adoption is a difficult option for many women to consider because it can seem like an impossible choice to make. No matter what decision you come to, it will be difficult; however, adoption does allow for something truly beautiful to come out of a difficult situation.


Why adoption?

Depending on financial, emotional, and other circumstances surrounding your unexpected pregnancy, adoption could be right for you. Adoption could be the best choice if any of the following are true:

  • You feel too young to become a parent
  • You don’t have a strong emotional support system
  • You aren’t sure how you would financially support a child
  • You are focused on school or your career
  • You don’t want to have an abortion but aren’t ready to parent


How does the adoption process work?

As the birth mother, you would have a choice through every step of the adoption process. From selecting the adoptive family to deciding how involved you want to be in his or her life, you are in control of all the decisions along the way. In most cases, financial assistance is available for medical and living expenses, along with various other benefits designed to assist birth mothers.


Different types of adoption

You must always remember, you are not “giving up” your child, you are making a plan for your child’s future. You are the one that has total control of the process.


  • Closed adoption: Today, closed adoptions are rare. A private adoption means neither you nor the adoptive family have any contact whatsoever. The adoption is handled entirely through a third party, such as an agency or attorney. With this type of adoption, a court seals the adoption records. The adult child has to petition the court to unseal the documents, even for medical reasons. If a birthmother wishes to remain anonymous for various reasons, closed adoption is the safest.


  • Open adoption:  Choosing an open adoption plan means you want to have full contact with the adoptive family and your child. Often, you will meet the family you’ve chosen even before giving birth. Everyone exchanges contact information such as names, phone numbers, emails, and addresses. Together, you and the adoptive family decide what type of contact you would both like to have. You can choose to exchange cards, letters, and photos. Or, if you live near one another, regular meetings or invitations to significant events such as birthday parties, graduations, and even weddings could include everyone.


  • Semi-open adoption: As a compromise between the two, a semi-open adoption is possible. This plan allows for the exchange of some identifying information, such as first names. Meetings are usually set up by the agency or attorney at a public location. Through that same third party, you can exchange cards, letters, and photos. Many adoptions begin as semi-open, and once all parties are more comfortable, they become fully open.


Adoption resources

If you decide that adoption might be a good choice for you, we can provide you with a list of adoption agencies so you can research each one, explore this option more thoroughly, and choose one that aligns with your specific needs.


No matter what decision you make for your unexpected pregnancy, it isn’t one you have to make alone. We understand that each individual's circumstances are unique. Our aim is for you to leave our office feeling empowered and confident in making the best decision for your pregnancy.


Northfield Women's Center is not affiliated with any adoption agency, and we do not profit from the choices you make.


Request an appointment with us today to learn more about adoption and the other options you have in a safe and non-judgmental environment.