One of the most common questions we hear from women considering adoption is “Is it too late?” There is no deadline or timeline to get started.
Every unplanned pregnancy is different, and no two expectant parent’s journey is the same. What matters most is that you’ve considered all of your options and explored adoption in depth, so that you are making an informed decision. It’s also important to remember that you won’t make a final decision until at least 48 hours after your baby is born. Until then, you are only making an adoption plan and that plan can be flexible.
I’m already in my third trimester. Do I still have time to make an adoption plan?
This may come as a surprise, but many of the women who have placed their babies with Adoption Advocates have reached out to us towards the end of their pregnancy. By this point, you’ve probably had more time to process your pregnancy and given more thought to your options.
While expectant parents receive free counseling at any time during the pregnancy, we start to focus more on the adoption plan after 20 weeks. At that point in your pregnancy, you’ll be eligible to receive financial assistance for housing, utilities, groceries and maternity clothing. You’ll also be able to start viewing family profiles and match with a waiting adoptive family.
Can I choose to place my baby for adoption after birth?
Yes, you can still make an adoption plan after you’ve delivered your baby. The process will be accelerated, but you will still be in control and make your own choices. An adoption counselor will meet you at the hospital to explain the adoption process, help you complete the paperwork, and present family profiles.
If your baby came as a surprise (it does happen!) or you hadn’t explored adoption before labor, let’s talk about it. You’re probably in shock right now, and it’s hard to make a permanent decision when you’re still processing the situation. In these cases, we may be able to provide temporary care for your baby while you learn about open adoption, talk to your family, and explore other options.
You may have taken your baby home, but discovered that parenting is more challenging than you thought. If your situation has changed and you find yourself unable to meet your baby’s needs, private adoption may be an option. Adoption Advocates is licensed to place newborns as well as children up to 3 years old.
I just found out I’m pregnant and I’m only a few weeks along. Can I still start an adoption plan?
Many women reach out for more information as soon as they discover they are pregnant. The surprise of an unplanned pregnancy can bring up feelings of anxiety, fear and uncertainty. Your initial reaction may be to feel that you aren’t ready to raise a child, or that you can’t do it on your own – so it’s natural to want to look at your options.
Even though you may have many months of pregnancy ahead of you, it’s never too early to reach out to an adoption agency. Before 20 weeks, the focus will be on discussing your feelings about the pregnancy, identifying your support system, and establishing medical care.
As you get closer to your due date, you’ll revisit your reasons for considering adoption and, if you still think it’s the best choice, begin making your adoption plan.
Just tested positive for a surprise pregnancy? Here’s what to do first.
No matter what point in your pregnancy you contact an adoption agency, you will be able to explore your options and make the decision you feel is right for your family. We’re here when you’re ready to take the next step, whether it’s asking a question, getting more information, or starting your adoption plan. You can contact us online, call (512) 477-1122 or text a counselor at (512) 270-8415.
