Many women facing an unexpected pregnancy overlook the third option, adoption. Movies and television often misrepresent how adoption really works. It can be difficult to picture bringing a baby into the world and then placing that baby with another family.
You might have concerns like:
- “What if that family doesn’t take good care of my baby?”
- “What if I live the rest of my life wondering what happened to my child?”
Those are normal questions, but they don’t necessarily mean adoption isn’t right for you. All they prove is that you already have maternal feelings for the baby inside you. It means that you are already becoming a loving mother, whether you will raise your child or entrust him or her to a loving adoptive family.
It is helpful to know that there are 3 common types of adoption: open, semi-open, and closed.
Open Adoption
In an open adoption, you can meet and get to know the family who will be adopting your child while you are still pregnant. You will make a plan together, and it’s possible to arrange for letters, phone calls, and even face-to-face visits. As your child grows, you can continue to stay in touch and be a regular part of his or her life, if you choose.
Semi-Open Adoption
In a semi-open adoption, you can choose the adoptive parents from a profile, most often provided to you by an adoption agency. These profiles often contain pictures, references, and a personal note from the couple to help you choose a family. Any letters or contact between you and your child would take place through your relationship with the adoption agency.
Closed Adoption
In a closed adoption, you won’t meet or have contact with the adoptive parents. This option can be preferable if you’re concerned about your privacy.
