Birth Parents

Birth parents have the option to choose open adoption if they wish to have a continued relationship with their child and the adoptive parents after placement. Open adoption has been shown to be a positive benefit for both birth parents and the adopted child. The degree of openness is usually discussed and agreed upon with the adoptive parents before placement. In many open adoptions today, the birth parents become “one of the family” and are invited to significant events in the child’s life.

IF A BIRTHMOTHER CHOOSES OPEN ADOPTION, SHE CAN EXPECT THE FOLLOWING:

• Meet with and interview adoptive couples that are prepared to adopt
• Visit often during your pregnancy with the adoptive couple you have chosen
• Discuss the degree of openness you would like
• Continue a relationship with your child and the adoptive parent throughout the child’s life.

Adoptive Parents

Adoptive parents who are entering into adoption for the first time may be a little apprehensive or fearful about having an open adoption. These fears or the questions they may have are completely natural. However, most adoptive parents learn that once they engage in an open adoption their concerns disperse. Studies have shown that adopted children benefit from an open adoption. Self-esteem can be effected if a child grows up wondering why he/she was “not wanted,” but if the child knows and has a relationship with their birth mother they will have a better understanding of why they were adopted.
IF ADOPTIVE PARENTS CHOOSE OPEN ADOPTION, THEY CAN EXPECT THE FOLLOWING:

• Meet and develop a relationship with the birth mother/parents;
• Discuss the degree of openness with the birth mother/parents;
• Have a good understanding of the child’s genetics and family medical history;
• Have a wider circle of family and support.