FAQ for Birth Parents
Can I talk to a social worker at New Life Family Services, even if I am not sure about adoption?
Absolutely! This is your decision to make. We will help you through the process without any pressure to make a certain decision. And we will help you think about all of your options.
How much do your services cost?
New Life Family Services is a non-profit organization that offers free decision-making counseling and adoption services for you, your child's father, and your families.
Adoption may be the best for my baby, but how could I go through with it after carrying my child for 9 months?
The decision to place a child for adoption is a difficult one and will involve unselfish sacrifice. However, choosing adoption can be a very loving and mature decision. Through meeting with a Pregnancy Support Social Worker, you will have the opportunity to talk through your emotions and thoughts on adoption, your fears or concerns, about what to expect when making an adoption plan and how to take care of yourself through the process. You may also choose to talk with birth moms who have made this decision as well. There are steps you can take before and after birth to help you through this process.
I am 6 weeks pregnant. Is it too early to start planning for adoption?
No. You can start planning for adoption as soon as you know you are pregnant.
I am due any day. Is it too late to make an adoption plan?
No. You can make an adoption plan at any time of your pregnancy or after you child is born. You have time and you have options no matter where you find yourself in the stages of pregnancy or birth. Even if your baby is born and you have been parenting for some time, you can still make an adoption plan. If you need additional time while making an adoption plan, New Life has licensed interim care available for your baby.
What does "open adoption" mean?
Open adoption is a very broad term, and can include many variables. At New Life Family Services we use the term open adoption to mean that birth parents have the opportunity to choose a prospective adoptive family, meet with that family before and after the birth of your child, and maintain contact with the child and the adoptive family throughout your lifetime. Each open adoption is unique, and how you ultimately decide to stay in touch is up to you. At New Life Family Services, social workers are available to assist you in deciding what level of openness is right for you.
Learn more about open adoption.
If I choose adoption, what happens when I go to the hospital?
For most birth parents, it is normal to waver in your adoption plan for your child. It is normal to experience many emotions around this decision. After your baby's birth, it is normal to experience a handful of changes – emotional and physical. During your hospital stay, you may find yourself reviewing or second-guessing your decision. We encourage you to spend time alone with your baby, holding him or her, and telling him or her your hopes and plans for the future during this important time in the hospital. Your Pregnancy Support Social Worker will be available to help you through this process, and to provide information and support you through your loss and grief. Building a system of supportive family or friends around you is especially important during this time.
What role does the father of my baby play in the adoption process?
New Life Family Services can work with you, regardless of the relationship you have with your baby's father. There are steps that the expectant father may have to take to ensure a safe and legal adoption. At New Life Family Services, we encourage expectant fathers to take part in the decision-making process. If the father does not wish to be involved, his parental rights may be terminated through the courts, depending on your situation. If you have questions about father's rights, it is important to discuss them with a Pregnancy Support Social Worker as early in the adoption process as possible.
Who are the adoptive couples at New Life Family Services?
Adoptive couples at New Life are Christian couples who desire to be loving parents, many of whom are unable to have children biologically. Every New Life adoptive couple has completed a thorough family assessment with a licensed Adoption Social Worker, which includes a criminal background check and multiple references. All couples must be married at least two years, financially and emotionally stable, and in good physical health. These couples are extensively interviewed regarding their marriage, values, faith, how they will parent, and other personal information. Adoptive couples also receive in-depth training on adoption issues which continues to be offered after the adoption is finalized.
Will adoption have negative affects on my child?
A recent study conducted by the Search Institute interviewed over 700 teenagers who had been adopted as infants. The study, the largest ever of adopted teens and their families, looked at various indicators of well-being. Among other things, this study found these teens received support from family and friends, were involved in positive activities, had just as strong of a personal identity and self-esteem as their non-adopted peers, and showed high levels of caring values. Other studies confirm these positive findings on adopted children and their families.
If I'm interested in finding out more about adoption, what do I do?
If you would like to talk with a New Life social worker, call to make an appointment at the office nearest you. If transportation is a challenge for you, don't let that stop you from contacting us.
