Birth Parents
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose adoption?
Birth parents choose to make an adoption plan for their baby for a number of reasons. It’s never because they don’t want or love the baby. Birth parents may choose adoption because they want their child to be raised in a home with a mother and a father. Another reason may be that they are parenting other children and already feel challenged to meet everyone’s needs. Birth parents often have a vision of what they want for their child, and choosing adoption enables them to give their child what they cannot at this time in their lives.
Can I choose the adoptive family?
We encourage birth parents to make as many decisions as they want to throughout the adoption process, including the selection of an adoptive family. Once this important decision is made, birth parents have the option of meeting with the adoptive parents. These meetings enable you to get to know one another on a personal level. The relationship that develops through meeting face to face builds mutual trust and respect, which are very important in a successful adoption. No identifying information is shared by either party so your confidentiality is protected.
How do I know my child will be safe and loved in an adoptive home?
All of the adoptive families that have applied to Adoption By Choice have had a home study that includes background checks for criminal and child abuse history, a physical examination, references from members of the community, a home safety inspection, financial and employment verifications, and several interviews with a social worker. It’s not easy to adopt, and adoptive families must be very committed and passionate about becoming parents.
Is there any cost to me?
There is no cost to you. All services provided to birth families are free of charge.
How long do I have to change my mind?
Birth mothers cannot sign a consent to the adoption until 72 hours after the baby’s birth. Once a consent is signed a birth parent has 30 days to revoke it. The birth father can sign the consent at any time, but if it is signed before the baby’s delivery he can revoke it up to 30 days from the baby’s birth.