You think you are pregnant. This was not in your plans. Fear, confusion and anger are just some of the feelings that you may be experiencing. You wonder what you are going to do.

Facing an unplanned pregnancy is hard. Before you decide, you deserve to know the facts. The law gives you the right to be fully informed about this important decision.

The following information answers the most commonly asked questions about adoption. Remember you do have positive options.

What is adoption?

Adoption is the legal placement of a child with people who will raise the child as their own.

Is adoption a permanent option?

Yes, the child becomes permanently and legally part of the adoptive family with full rights to inheritance and a lifetime family relationship.

Is adoption a selfish act?

No. Putting the child’s welfare in front of your own feelings is a true act of love. This is hard love—hard to decide—hard to do—truly caring.

Are birth parents likely to feel sadness after adoption?

Of course they are. You may think about the child you placed for a long time. But the hope for that child’s happiness, and the sure start in life you helped to give that child, can be a source of strength to you.

Do children belong with their birth parents?

Sometimes a birth parent just isn’t ready or able to parent a child. Children need to be cared for day in and day out, year after year. They need a stable family. Adoptive parents may be better able than birth parents to provide a home.

Will people think badly of me for choosing adoption?

Some may. There are different attitudes about adoption in our society. Perhaps no one in your family has ever “given up their own flesh and blood” before. It takes strength and courage to do what you believe to be right. Selecting adoption may be the most loving option you can choose. It is your decision.

Can I get financial help with the cost of childbirth?

In cases of need, financial assistance is available for health care costs. Help for costs related to adoption may be discussed with your adoption agency.

Will my baby be well taken care of?

Today there are thousands of couples who are unable to have babies. They dearly desire to become adoptive parents and are ready to love and raise a child. Many are already waiting. They have been registered and approved by adoptive agencies. In most cases you have the option to be involved in selecting those parents for your child.

Is adoption the easy way out for me?

Far from it. Adoption is a difficult decision to make. It might be easier to say, “It’s my baby, and no one is going to tell me what to do with it!” But you have to think about yourself, and other people who are close to you. And you have to think about the child’s future.

How do I get started?

Begin by asking yourself these hard questions:

• Am I able to give a child what it needs?
• Would I have to count on my patents to take over for me?
• Can I raise a child and meet my own needs? To finish school? Start a career?
• Am I really ready to become a good parent on my own?

Adoption resource links:

lifetimeadoption.com
bethany.org
LittleAngelAdoption.com

“Adoption is an act of love”
Author unkown

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