Many myths surround adoption. If people are unaware of the changes in the adoption process, they still think a birth mother is “giving up” her baby. Making an adoption plan is very different from what it was even a few decades ago.
Today, the expectant mother, or birth mother, makes all of the decisions. Let’s take a look at some of those myths so you can learn how today’s adoption plans are made.
Myth #1: Mothers Choose Adoption Because They Don’t Care
This myth is the reason people tell a woman that she’s “giving up” her baby. Nothing can be further from the truth. Loving mothers never give up. They give their child a better life than they can provide.
An expectant mother or birth mother makes an adoption plan that benefits the child she loves. It isn’t easy, but sometimes the hardest choices are the best. The team at A Loving Option Adoption will work closely with you to create a personalized adoption plan.
Myth #2: Mothers Never See Their Children Again
You can choose from three adoption plans: open adoption, semi-open, or closed. You choose the plan that gives you the amount of contact you wish to have with your child and their adoptive family.
An open adoption plan gives you direct contact. A semi-open plan provides more privacy. All communication comes to A Loving Option Adoption first, and we forward it on to you.
The third option is a closed adoption. You would have no future contact with your child or their adoptive family. You choose the plan that is best for you.
Myth #3: All Adoption Agencies Care About Is the Baby
Sadly, some adoption agencies are unscrupulous. This is why it’s critical to work with a reputable, licensed adoption agency like A Loving Option.
You are our priority. We will never manipulate or coerce you to make this choice. Your Birth Parent Specialist will review all of your options for your pregnancy. We do not perform or refer for abortion, but we’ll help you look at available services for parenting and review the entire adoption process.
Our goal is to help you feel confident in your decision. Adoption can be a difficult choice to make, but the more understanding you have, the more peace you will have.
Myth # 4: Birth Mothers Never Recover
Making an adoption plan can be emotionally challenging, and some women struggle more than others. We offer 24-hour compassionate support 7 days a week and in-person services throughout East Tennessee.
You’ll receive ongoing one-on-one counseling following the placement of your child. With an open or semi-open adoption, you’ll have the opportunity to build a relationship with your child and their adoptive family.
Birth mothers can heal, and the team at A Loving Option Adoption will support you for as long as you need us.
Myth #5: I Can’t Change My Mind
In Tennessee, a birth mother can surrender her child after her hospital discharge, or 48 hours after childbirth, whichever is earlier. You can change your mind at any time before you sign the surrender form in front of a judge, and for three business days after the surrender form is signed.
You are your child’s legal mother throughout this waiting period. It’s common to have second thoughts after your child is born. That’s why you can change your mind up to three business days after you sign the paperwork.
We’ll be by your side at this time to help you determine what’s best.
Contact A Loving Option Adoption
When you first contact us, we’ll start by getting to know you and answering your adoption questions.
As we continue, we’ll talk about making an adoption plan and what that will mean for you and your child. Your Birth Parent Specialist will explain the full process in detail, and you can personalize your plan at every stage.
You’re under no obligation to place your child for adoption when you contact us. Use our confidential contact form or chat with us online. You can also call or text us at 865-684-1894.
We’re looking forward to speaking with you.