Family with Baby

How Hospital Adoptions Work

Last-minute solutions: How hospital adoptions work

Sometimes, after the baby arrives, a mother realizes that she needs to look at options besides parenting. There are many reasons a mother might make the difficult choice to explore adoption, but regardless of the “why,” every mother deserves care and compassion at such a time. You do not have to make this decision on your own. Our options counselors can quickly meet with you at the hospital to answer your questions and explain how hospital adoptions work, so that you can come to a place of peace with your decision.

Learning about modern adoption and Florida state adoption laws can help you better understand your options and make the decision that feels right for you.

A quick overview of how hospital adoptions work

One of the first things you need to know is that asking for help from our Florida adoption agency does not mean that you’re committing yourself to placing your child for adoption. Speaking with an options counselor simply gives you a chance to learn how hospital adoptions work before you make any permanent decisions.

Our compassionate options counselors are available to meet you where you are, as we understand that hospital adoption questions can often involve urgent circumstances. We will come to you and explain every step of the hospital adoption process, answer your questions without judgment, and support whatever choice you ultimately make.

If you do decide that adoption is the best choice for you, your counselor will guide you through the following steps.

  • Review profiles of waiting families
  • Select the parents you feel are the best fit for your child, and meet with them if you choose to
  • Create an adoption plan that includes your preferences for communication and future contact with your child and the adoptive family
  • Sign adoption consent documents after the required 48-hour waiting period or as established by Florida state adoption laws
  • Continue receiving counseling and emotional support for as long as you need it

Throughout the hospital adoption process, our professional team will assist you through all necessary arrangements and ensure that your wishes are prioritized.

Who do I call to get information about the hospital adoption process?

If you’re considering adoption for your baby, but need more information, our options counselors are available to support and assist you. Call us at (239) 703-8600 to meet with an options counselor and get the support you need.


Yes. A mother may choose to create an adoption plan before delivery or after her baby is born, often while she and the baby are still at the hospital after the birth.

No. Reaching out simply to an adoption agency gives you the opportunity to learn about your options and understand how hospital adoptions work. You should never be pressured to choose adoption.

Under Florida state adoption laws, a mother cannot legally consent to adoption until at least 48 hours after giving birth or upon being discharged by the hospital. After that waiting period or after discharge from the hospital, she may sign the adoption consent paperwork.