Women, from all walks of life, facing unexpected pregnancies have chosen adoption for their babies. Today’s adoption is very different from a few decades ago. Now, the expectant mother or birth mother makes all of the decisions. Read about your rights if you choose adoption and see if this is an option for you.
What Does Adoption Look Like?
Adoption is the legal transfer of all rights and responsibilities of parenting from the biological parents to the adoptive parents. It is not co-parenting.
Decades ago, a woman didn’t know who had adopted her child or where they went. Social norms determined that it was better to keep everything a secret.
Adoption is completely opposite today. Now, the expectant mother or birth mother selects the couple she would like to raise her child. She establishes the path she wants her child to take.
She can also decide how much contact she wishes to have with her child and their adoptive family after the finalization of the adoption.
Adoption Plans to Choose From
There are three adoption plans to choose from. Your plan depends on how much contact you wish to have with the adoptive family.
Open Adoption
In an open adoption, all parties exchange some identifying information. You may share full names, phone numbers, addresses, or emails. Together, you choose how to communicate and when.
Semi-Open Adoption
If you would like a little more privacy, choose a semi-open plan. You still have contact with your child and their family, but all communication goes through your adoption specialist first. This is also known as a mediated adoption.
Closed Adoption
Less than 10% of adoptions today are closed. With this plan, you have complete anonymity. The courts seal the adoption records, and you have no contact with your child or their adoptive family.
Adoption Myths
- Myth #1: My child will hate me if I choose adoption. The truth is, when you select an open or semi-open adoption, you have the opportunity to tell your child that you chose adoption because you deeply love and care for them.
- Myth #2: I will always regret placing my child. You can heal and find happiness by choosing an adoption specialist who offers ongoing counseling and support. Many birth mom support groups counsel, love, and encourage one another.
- Myth #3: The adoptive parents won’t keep their word. Adoption requires trust from all parties. Because you choose the adoptive couple, you have the chance to build a relationship even before your baby is born. Plus, staying in touch after finalization assures your child is loved and cared for.
- Myth #4: I’ll get paid to place my baby for adoption. Getting paid to place your baby for adoption is considered child trafficking and is illegal in all states. You can, however, receive free medical care and legal representation. In some cases, other pregnancy-related expenses are covered.
Expectant Mother’s Rights
You have the right to the following:
- To receive a complete explanation of the adoption process and Texas adoption law.
- To select the couple who will raise your child.
- To create a personalized adoption plan that includes the amount of contact you wish to have.
- To pay nothing for adoption services.
- To receive free prenatal and hospital care, if necessary.
- To not be manipulated or coerced into choosing adoption.
- To receive legal representation.
- To potentially receive other pregnancy-related assistance.
- To change your mind at any time until you sign legal papers to terminate your parental rights.
Radiance Women’s Center is not a licensed child-placing agency, but we can refer you to local adoption specialists. If you want to learn more about adoption, ask us about it during your pregnancy appointment with us.
