Considering Placing Your Baby For Adoption? Take It One Step At A Time

The decision to place your baby for adoption is a big one. It is not one that you should make overnight or in a hurry, and yet it is a decision that you will need to make sooner or later. A good way to approach this decision is systematically. Working through the decision in a step-by-step manner helps ensure you thoroughly think through all angles and possibilities. Here are the steps you can take when considering whether to place your baby adoption.

1. Let others know you're considering adoption.

Unless you feel unsafe doing so, the first thing you should do is tell the baby's other parent and anyone else who you are close to that you are considering adoption for your baby. Make it clear that you have not made a decision yet, but this is just a possibility that you'll be exploring over the coming weeks. Be prepared for some people to take this hard and question you. Stand up for yourself and your right as a birth mother to make this choice for yourself and your child.

2. Visit an adoption center.

You can find all sorts of information about adoption online these days, but it can be hard to know what is real and what's not and what specific rules apply in your state. Therefore, the best way to learn more about adoption is to visit an adoption center in person. They'll fully explain the process, what your options would be, and how you can get in touch if you do decide adoption is right for you. Many mothers-to-be feel more comfortable with adoption after visiting an agency in person.

3. Make a list of pros and cons.

Once you have all of the relevant information about adoption, make a list of pros and a list of cons associated with adoption. Some of these can be pros or cons for your baby, and others can be pros or cons for you. Making the list will get you thinking. By the time you're done, you should have a better idea of what the best choice is.

4. Talk through your decision with someone supportive.

Once you've decided that you're either leaning towards or away from adoption, talk through your decision with one trusted person. If the baby's other parent is involved and supportive, they should be the person you talk to. If they are not involved, seek out a friend who you know will have your back. You could even see a therapist. The point of this talk is for you to outline your reasons for making your choice and for the person you're chatting with to reassure you. This will help you go into the birth with confidence in your choice.

The decision of whether to place your baby for adoption is a big one, but if you work through it one step at a time, you'll make the right choice for you and your child.