Adoption 101: Get the Adoption Facts
When you’re unexpectedly pregnant and trying to understand your options, a smart first step is to learn as much as you can about the choices available to you. Considering adoption can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you are unfamiliar with how the process works. This Adoption 101 guide provides an introduction to domestic infant adoption in Florida and explains some of the important adoption facts to know before making an adoption plan.
What is most important to know about the adoption process?
Taking the time to research adoption can help you feel more prepared and confident as you consider what is best for you and your baby.
One of the most important adoption facts to know is that the baby’s mother takes the lead on all decisions throughout the adoption process. Modern adoption gives expectant mothers the opportunity to create a plan based on their personal wishes, including choosing adoptive parents, planning the birth experience, and deciding what kind of future relationship they would like to have with the adoptive family.
As part of Adoption 101, it can help to understand the general steps involved in a domestic infant adoption in Florida.
- The first step is connecting with our licensed Florida adoption agency to learn about the process, ask questions and explore your options.
- If adoption feels like the right choice, you can create an adoption plan that reflects your preferences for your pregnancy, birth and future contact.
- You can review profiles of waiting families and choose the adoptive parents you feel are the best fit for your baby.
- You can receive free support throughout your pregnancy and beyond, including counseling, medical assistance and legal guidance.
- You can choose where you would like to deliver your baby and make decisions about your hospital experience.
- After your baby is born, you will sign adoption consent forms after a waiting period required by Florida state law. That waiting period is either 48 hours after delivery, or until you are discharged from the hospital, whichever comes first. An adoption decision for a newborn is not reversible once the consents are signed.
- Support and counseling will continue during your recovery and afterward, for as long as you need it.
What costs are involved in adoption?
Another key part of Adoption 101 is understanding the financial side of the process. One of the adoption facts that many people do not realize is that mothers who choose adoption do not pay for any adoption-related services.
If you decide to make an adoption plan while you are pregnant, expenses connected to your medical care, labor and delivery, and the legal process are all covered for you. Our agency takes care of everything on the financial side, so you can focus on taking care of yourself and planning for your future. Under Florida law, some expectant mothers may also qualify for help with certain pregnancy-related living expenses, such as housing, utilities, groceries or maternity clothing.
Get the adoption facts you need before moving forward
As your baby’s mother, if you choose to make an adoption plan, the process moves forward with you in the lead. Learning the adoption facts and understanding how the process works can help you decide whether adoption is the right option for you to ensure the bright future that you want for your child.
Whether you are just beginning your research or are looking for more detailed information, continuing your Adoption 101 education can help you better understand your choices and what to expect as you move forward. Our experienced, caring team of options counselors is standing by to answers all of your questions about domestic infant adoption in Florida. Contact Legacy Adoption Services® any time by calling (239) 703-8600 to speak with an options counselor.
