frequently asked questions

Answers to Questions

Will I be able to talk with the adoptive family before I commit to placing my baby with them?

Answer: Yes. The families we are working with who are waiting to adopt are eager to talk with you and to form with you the relationship that best suits you and the family, before, during and after the adoption process.
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What can I expect after my baby is adopted? Will I receive pictures and letters from the adoptive parents?

Answer: We support you and the adoptive parents in creating a continuing communication plan that works for both of you. Often, birth mothers and adoptive parents agree to exchange photos and letters on an on-going basis, on a schedule that works for them and either directly, or through our office, as they may decide. Sometimes, birth mothers don’t know how much contact they’ll want after the birth. If that is the case, we ask the adoptive parents to keep pictures aside for the birth mother, in case she decides she wishes to receive them. Some birth mothers opt for no contact, which they feel helps them to get on with their lives. Each situation is as different as each birth mother is unique. We are here to honor you and your preferences so that you are able to complete your adoption plan knowing that your decisions and preferences were supported in a compassionate way.
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How will I know my baby is being adopted by a good family?

Answer: You will be intimately involved in choosing the adoptive family for your baby. All of our potential adoptive parents are required by our office to have what is called a “home study.” The home studies are conducted by a licensed social worker in the state in which the family lives. The home study assesses their relationship stability, financial situation, lifestyle, medical history, and so forth, and verifies that there is no record of criminal activity or child abuse. Their home will be inspected to assure it is a safe environment for a child. Most birth mothers talk with the family and get to know them before committing to the adoption plan. Of course, if you prefer to not speak with the family, that is also your choice. In fact, some mothers ask us to make the choice of an adoptive family for their child, and we are happy to do so, taking into consideration the mother’s wishes and preferences.
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Will I have to pay for anything for my pregnancy or the adoption? Will the adoptive parents pay for medical bills and other expenses?

Answer: The ability to assist a birth mother with expenses is a matter of state law, and varies a great deal. But, assuming that it is allowed, if you are in need of financial assistance, our adoptive families are prepared to assist you with your pregnancy-related medical (including pre- and post-partum counseling), legal and living expenses. For example, if you are near the end of your pregnancy and are unable to continue to work because of your pregnancy, the adoptive parents may agree to replace reasonable lost wages. We are also able to help make arrangements for professional counseling before, during and for an agreed-upon time after the placement. There are very few cases, if any, where the birthmother has any out of pocket pregnancy-related expenses that are not reimbursable, especially medical expenses. If you are not sure if an expense can be reimbursed or paid, please don’t hesitate to ask us.
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