The Ins and Outs of the Adoption Process, Explained

The Ins and Outs of the Adoption Process, Explained

An unexpected pregnancy is scary and stressful, but you aren't alone. There is support available to guide you through this experience, and if you're considering adoption, this could be the best answer for you and your baby.

Giving a child up for adoption feels overwhelming, but it is a selfless, wonderful gift that can help you and your baby thrive. By working with one of our free counselors, you can receive the support and guidance you need to take the next steps.

The Childhood Adoption Process, Explained

From a birth parent's perspective, the child adoption process is signing over your parental rights to another person or couple, who becomes the legal parent of a child. It's not an easy choice, and you don't have to make it right away. Depending on what state you live in, there may even be time after birth to change your mind. It's okay to feel scared and uncertain. What matters most is doing what's best for you and your baby.

The adoption process looks a little different depending on where you live. In some states, you may sign a pre-birth agreement, where you essentially sign over rights before the child is born. In other states, you have time after delivery to formally sign over your parental rights, so the intended adopters can become the legal parents.

How Long Does the Adoption Process Take?

Most adoptions for newborns only take a few months. There is typically a mandatory waiting period before adoption is finalized for the adoptive parents. As the birth parent, you aren't obligated to parent the child before adoption is finalized. You can allow the adoptive parents to take the child home from the hospital.

You can even sign over your baby at the hospital, and it will be taken into foster care.

Here at Plana, we know how scary and stressful the adoption process feels, and we are here to help you explore all of your options.

The Most Common Adoption FAQs

How hard is it to give a baby up for adoption?

Although it can be emotionally difficult, giving your baby up for adoption can be a simple legal process. The heartbreak, grief, and even uncertainty are the hardest parts to deal with: it's not about rushing to find a solution, but rather, finding the right path that will give you and your baby the best lives possible.

Can I give up my baby for adoption at the hospital?

Yes, many states allow you to sign over parental rights and give up a baby after birth. Adoption is always an option, even after your baby is born, and even if you didn't plan ahead or select any parents. There are always loving people who yearn for a child and will take wonderful care of your baby.

What will happen to my baby?

If you work with an adoption agency and select adoptive parents, your baby will be lovingly taken home by them from the hospital after delivery. They'll complete the adoption process on their own. If you give up your baby at the hospital, then they will be taken by the state and placed in foster care until someone adopts them. Either way, your baby will be okay, and you will be, too.

Can you change your mind about adoption?

Yes, many states allow you to change your mind and give you time to make a decision before signing legally binding paperwork. If you sign your rights away and they're finalized by the court, it may be impossible to change anything. This is why knowing all of your options is so important. Together, we can weigh the pros and cons and explore your emotions in a safe, non-judgmental space. When the time comes to make the right decision, you'll be able to with a clear mind.

Conclusion

Unplanned pregnancies are scary, but you aren't alone. Plana is here to help you explore your options and possibly give someone the baby they've been dreaming of. If you need support, we’re here for you. Download our app for free connection and counseling.