What’s the Difference Between an Expectant Mother & a Birth Mother?

It is no surprise that the world of adoption is overwhelming, complex, and sometimes confusing. For women who are expecting, an unplanned pregnancy is a life-altering experience. One that forces them to make significant choices for themselves and their baby. If adoption is on your radar, then it is vital to honor these tough choices and learn the difference between proper terminology, including birth and expectant mother. 

You are not alone if you find yourself using these two terms interchangeably. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between these titles and what you can expect during an adoption process.

What is an Expectant Mother?

Understanding the difference between a birth and an expectant mother is essential for learning about the roles each parent plays during an adoption procedure. An expectant mother is what it sounds like: a woman who is pregnant. Whether you are early or late in your pregnancy makes no difference. 

While expectant mothers have already confirmed their pregnancy, this doesn’t mean they are ready to place their child for adoption. A woman who discovers she is carrying a child might have mixed feelings over the sudden realization. Some realize that they are not financially ready to raise a child. Others might want to pursue personal and professional goals before starting a family. 

Not surprisingly, adoption is a sensitive topic of discussion for expectant mothers. Coming to terms with a pregnancy is a gradual process filled with hardships. Here at Texas Adoption Center, we are committed to easing uncertainties by helping expectant mothers explore their options. Whether they are considering adoption or looking for alternatives, we are here to support expectant mothers every step of the way.

Our adoption specialists will sit down with expectant mothers and help them explore the best path forward. 

What is a Birth Mother?

Simply put, a birth mother is someone who has signed the legal affidavits, such as a Relinquishment of Parental Rights, to place her child for adoption. If you are pregnant and creating an adoption plan, but have not yet signed the paperwork to legally place your child with the adoptive family, you are still an expectant mother. 

A birth mother can be as involved in the adoption process as they want. There are several steps involved in the process of placing a baby for adoption. These include contacting an agency, selecting a family, and going through a finalization hearing before a judge. Depending on the relationship a birth mother wants with their child, they can opt for one of three adoption types: open, semi-open, or closed adoption.  

With open adoption, they can maintain contact with an adoptive family, allowing them to have a relationship with the child. Keep in mind that the length of an adoption process depends on several factors. Adoptive applicants are matched with an expectant mother while women wait for the full term of their pregnancy. A birth mother must also wait 48 hours after giving birth before consenting to an adoption.

Fortunately, Texas Adoption Center offers several unplanned pregnancy support services. Whether a birth mother needs help with basic finances or requires counseling services, our specialists will stand with them as they navigate the pregnancy journey. 

Why Differentiate Between Birth and Expectant Mother?

Understanding the difference between a birth mother and an expectant mother is crucial for implementing the appropriate language that respects all parties involved in adoption. Doing so acknowledges that all participants are extremely important and their decisions are extremely valid. A birth mother who places her son or daughter for adoption is a sign of her endless love and commitment. 

Even after an adoption is finalized, a birth parent’s love for her child remains intact. If anything, she hopes for a bright future for herself and the child. All members in an adoption journey play a significant role in providing children an opportunity to live fulfilling lives. 

Clarifying the difference between parental terms is a way of establishing an inclusive environment so that all members feel honored and accepted. More importantly, using the correct adoption terminology is a way of communicating with multiple audiences appropriately. 

Contact Texas Adoption Center

Adopting appropriate terminology is just a way of distinguishing between parties and their involvement in an adoption. The important thing to remember is that expectant, birth, and adoptive parents are all individuals who want to establish a healthy upbringing for a child.

If you have any questions about adoption resources or support services, get in touch with us. Our specialists are ready to take your call!    

Why Agencies Stopped Using Phrases Like “Give A Baby Up For Adoption”

When discussing adoption, individuals want to be as kind and inclusive as possible, but may not know how or what to say. The adoption-sensitive language that agencies use has a huge impact on the process of adoption! We use language to communicate with others, convey our emotions, share our beliefs, and express our love. Words have the power to inspire, uplift, and turn us into more caring people. However, words can also easily hurt people in the wrong contexts and convey the wrong messages. 

Caring agencies always use inclusive and compassionate language when discussing adoption. Because adoption is an emotional experience, adoption agencies must use the correct language to dispel common myths. In this guide, we will discuss the importance of adoption-sensitive language and explain why agencies stopped using phrases like “Give A Baby Up For Adoption.” This is so you can help change the narrative surrounding adoption.

The Importance of Positive Adoption Language

Embracing positive language can go a long way in ending negative ideas about sensitive topics. When it comes to adoption, the words we use convey our preconceived notions about such an emotional experience. Here are five reasons why the use of adoption-sensitive language is important and why agencies use positive language.

  1. Honors the birth family

Going through an adoption experience is an emotional journey for everyone involved. By consistently using positive language, we honor the birth family for making this courageous and difficult decision. More importantly, we empower the expectant mother with our words as she is navigating many tough choices. We want to support and honor her throughout her decision-making process and beyond. 

  1. Value the adoptive guardians

Using positive language is also about honoring hopeful adoptive families for welcoming a new member into their family. Sometimes adoptive parents face judgment for choosing adoption. Positive language honors families who want to share their love with a young child in need. In other words, we acknowledge that adoption is a decision made out of love, while honoring the emotionally difficult moments along the journey. 

  1. Protects the privacy of the family

It goes without saying, adoption is considered a private subject. Understandably, some families don’t want to share their experiences with others. By remaining conscious of our words, we learn to respect all those involved.

  1. Promotes a child’s self-worth

As a child who was adopted grows and learns, they may have questions about the adoption process. This is normal and healthy — and we want to encourage positive adoption language when talking with a child about the adoption process. Positive language is easy to understand and encourages a child’s self-worth. 

  1. Dispels adoption myths

Using wholesome words when discussing adoption helps dispel any negative perceptions about adoption. Using phrases such as “unwanted child” continues the false beliefs and negative ideas about adoption. Instead, we should use terms that accurately represent adoption as an empowering journey for everyone involved.

Examples of Adoption Sensitive Language

To provide you with a better understanding of which phrases and terms to avoid when discussing adoption, we put together the following list:

Language to use                                              Language to avoid 

Birth child                                                  Own child

Was adopted                                            Is adopted

Place for Adoption                                  Give up

Child placed for adoption                     Unwanted child

Child who has special needs                Handicapped child

Waiting child                                             Adoptable child

My child                                                      Adopted child

Choosing to parent the child                Keeping the child

Make an adoption plan                          Give up for adoption

Birth parent/mother/father                   Natural parent/mother/father

Make contact with                                   Reunion

Divorced                                                      Broken marriage 

Search for                                                   Track down parents

Why Avoid Certain Terms?

Unless you are a birth parent, adopted child, or adoptive parent, you may not understand how unpleasant phrases bring up negative emotions in others. We should always try to use language that describes the unique adoption experience appropriately. Let’s dive deeper into a few of these terms. 

  • “Give up” for adoption: The phrase “give up” denotes that a child is unwanted or undesirable. It communicates the false idea that some children don’t have loving families. 
  • “Adoptable” child: Avoid using the term “adoptable.” The term implies that some children are actually unlovable or unworthy of a parent’s love. Every child is loveable!
  • “Natural” parent: Instead of saying “natural” when discussing a child’s biological  parents, use the term “birth parent” or “first parent.” Using the term natural implies that adoptive parents are not the child’s parents. 

Contact Texas Adoption Center

When it comes to the use of adoption-sensitive language, remain attentive to your words and speak about adoption compassionately. There is no room for judgment when discussing these experiences. 

Here at Texas Adoption Center, we embody the principles of compassion and empowerment. Our knowledgeable staff is committed to guiding families along their adoption journey, as well as supporting expectant mothers and birth mothers. 

We don’t tell you to make the “right” decision. Instead, we empower people to make the best decisions for themselves and their children.   

Check out our services to learn more about us. Contact us to explore your options. 

Thinking About Adoption: How To Find An Agency That’s Right for You

As a hopeful adoptive parent, you may have realized that selecting an adoption agency can become an intimidating experience. With so many options and resources available, it can get overwhelming trying to figure out which agency operates in the best interest of the entire adoptive triad.   

Fortunately, with some research, professional guidance, and intuition, you can turn your search into a wholesome experience. If this is your first time going through the adoption process, this guide is for you. Continue reading to learn more about selecting the right agency so you can shape your adoption story.

Types of Adoption Agencies

When thinking about adoption, it helps to know the types of agencies available. Understanding your options will go a long way in facilitating your adoption experience for you and your partner. With that said, here are the three most common adoption agencies:   

  • Local private agencies: Local private agencies provide one-on-one support from an adoption professional nearby in your community. Each agency operates with their set of guidelines and procedures. There are several benefits to opting for a local organization. These include individualized matching services, in-person support counseling, financial assistance, and adoption planning tailored to your needs. As far as restrictions, local agencies must follow the regulations of their state.
  • National agencies: National adoption agencies offer support services and resources. Because these professionals are licensed nationally, they understand the legalities associated with cross-state adoption. Plus, prospective guardians receive access to social services staff and adoption specialists for general support.
  • International agencies: If you and your partner have decided to adopt a child from a foreign country, then an international agency can get you started. When evaluating a quality international agency, check to see if your selection is accredited. International agencies with official accreditations are recognized for complying with national standards and providing high levels of adoption services.

Selecting the Right Agency

Finding the right adoption agency can go a long way in helping you avoid potential delays, scams, and/or other hindrances that may disrupt your adoption process. With this in mind, here are five crucial factors to consider when selecting an agency:

  1. Decide on a type of adoption

When thinking about adoption, you must first decide on the type of adoption you want. Are you hoping to adopt an infant from your local area? If so, a local adoption agency would be a wise choice. For out-of-state adoptions, check in with a national agency. There is no right or wrong answer here. The key is to remain selective and narrow down your selections based on your personal desires.

  1. Contact selected agencies and ask specific questions

After spending time examining your options and browsing through agency websites, get in contact with an agency. Come up with a list of critical questions so you can gain a thorough insight into what they offer and make an honest evaluation of their services. Ask the following questions in your interview:

  • What are your requirements for hopeful adoptive parents?
  • Do you offer pre-adoption education for hopeful adoptive parents?
  • Do you provide support services for birth parents and adoptive parents?
  • What is the matching process like?
  • How much are up-front costs?

Consider the tone and communication of the person on the other end of the line. Their responses can provide insight into the type of community they have. Does the representative sound knowledgeable and compassionate? Do they sympathize with your concerns? If so, that is a good indicator of an organization that cares.

  1. Search for adoption success stories

Phone interviews are just one part of the search process. What you need is solid evidence that can back your agency’s reputation. Ask for referrals and success stories of other adoptive families. What was their experience like? Were there any complaints filed or addressed? You can also read through any online reviews to gain a better assessment of the agency.

  1. Look out for potential red flags

When in doubt, trust your gut. Adoption is a sensitive process that can elicit strong emotions from all parties involved. Use common sense when determining how reliable or trustworthy an agency is regarding adoption-related matters. Every organization will claim to operate in the best interest of expectant parents and adoptive families. Tap into several areas to determine how true that claim is.

Are they upfront about overall adoption expenses? Do they abide by state and national regulations? Are they trying to pressure you to select their services? Finally, remain dismissive of any organization with no affiliation with other reputable agencies.

  1. Seek out organizations with experienced professionals

Exceptional adoption agencies should be operated by qualified professionals with years of education, training, and experience. Staff members should remain open and honest about their professional backgrounds.

Contact Texas Adoption Center

With the right mindset, guidance, and in-depth research, you can find an agency ready to guide you and your family on this beautiful journey.

If you have any questions, Texas Adoption Center is ready to help. Our qualified specialists go above and beyond in their services. We are a wholesome community ready to empower you through your adoption process.  

Contact us to get started!

Infant Adoption in Texas: The Ultimate Guide

Adopting an infant is an opportunity to embark on a wholesome journey as a family. It’s the start of a new chapter where every little moment with your baby becomes a cherished memory. 

Understandably, hopeful adoptive parents may find this process intimidating. If you’re hoping to adopt a newborn in Texas, we have the perfect guide for you! In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about infant adoption in Texas and help you take your first steps as a new family. 

Infant Adoption: What You Must Know

Before selecting an adoption agency and going through the legal process of adopting an infant, keep in mind the following key points about infant adoption in Texas.

Agencies typically handle infant adoptions

If you’re hoping to adopt a newborn, you are better off contacting an adoption agency. Since the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services primarily focuses on handling adoption cases involving children between the ages of seven and 17, working with an agency is the most seamless approach with the least amount of complications.

There is a 48-hour window

In Texas, a birth mother must wait at least 48 hours after the birth before signing adoption affidavits relinquishing her parental rights. As a hopeful guardian, just remember to wait patiently while the regulations established by the state are followed. Remember, infant adoption is an emotional process for all parties involved.

Birth mothers have a right to post-adoption contact

Keep in mind that even after the relinquishment of parental rights, a birth mother has the right to remain in contact with her baby. The terms and conditions of contact and visits will have to be worked out between both families. This is the case with open adoptions, where birth families retain communication with their newborn child, even after an adoption is finalized.

Establishing communication is vital in infant adoption cases. An agency can help facilitate this open and positive communication between birth parents and adoptive parents. Agencies can have all parties sign a post-placement communication agreement outlining expectations for updates, photos, visits, etc. 

Steps To Adopting an Infant in Texas

Choosing to adopt an infant is a monumental undertaking and will require a willingness to accept potential challenges, setbacks, and stressful moments that lie ahead. That said, you get to provide a nurturing environment and establish a positive path for a baby’s upbringing. Here are the steps you need to take to adopt an infant in Texas:

  1. Select an adoption agency

Take the time to research potential agencies that will help you navigate the infant adoption process. Don’t rush through this step in the hopes of becoming an adoptive parent quickly. Look for a reputable agency that will guide you, address your concerns, and establish legal proceedings for a smooth experience. 

  1. Wait for an adoption opportunity 

Patience is critical here. After selecting an agency, going through the proper clearances, and completing an adoptive family profile, you must wait for an adoption opportunity. Do note that the waiting period to be selected as an adoptive family can vary. It may take weeks or months before an expectant mother selects you as an adoptive parent for their unborn child. 

In general, the majority of families are matched within six to 12 months when working with an adoption agency. Be sure to ask your agency their average matching timeframe.

  1. Establish pre-placement contact with expectant parents

Establishing contact pre-placement with the expectant parents is a critical component of infant adoption in Texas. The level of communication with an expectant mother before birth will depend on several factors, including the type of adoption and any circumstances pertaining to your case.

If you opt for open adoption, you may communicate with each other via phone calls, emails, and personal visits. The key is to develop an ongoing relationship with the expectant parent(s) to ease any anxieties, establish trust, and make decisions in the best interests of the baby. 

  1. Placement of the infant

Remember, a birth mother must wait 48 hours after the birth of her child before offering her consent to an adoption and relinquishing her parental rights. 

  1. Adoption finalization

After several post-placement visits, typically five for Texas adoptions, your attorney can issue a request for a finalization hearing. A judge will grant you parental rights through a final adoption decree, signaling the completion of the adoption process. This is the final legal step in the process, but the months and years ahead bring many opportunities to build a bond within the adoptive triad and continue ongoing communication with your child’s birth family. This is crucial!

Adopt an Infant With Texas Adoption Center

Adopting an infant is an opportunity for endless joy, love, and cherishable memories. Texas Adoption Center is ready to help your family turn that dream into a reality.

Whether you are an expectant mother looking for an adoptive family or a prospective parent hoping to adopt, we let our families take control of their adoption process. In other words, you are in the driver’s seat.

Contact us to learn more about your options.

Infant Adoption Process: What To Expect

Adopting a child is a bold and beautiful move that will forever change the lives of the adoptive triad. The life-changing experience of infant adoption can seem like an overwhelming choice. If you’re thinking about taking this amazing step, it’s important to do your research and ask yourself some tough questions first.

Once you’re ready to proceed with infant adoption, familiarizing yourself with the process is the next key step. Let’s discuss everything you need to know about what to expect during and after infant adoption.

Getting Started With The Infant Adoption Process

Are you thinking about placing your baby for adoption? You probably have a lot of questions about what the infant adoption process looks like and what to expect. It can be a confusing and emotional time but know that you are not alone.

There are many resources available to help you through the infant adoption process, including support groups, adoption professionals, and online research. One of the best things you can do is educate yourself about the infant adoption process and what it will mean for you, your baby, and the adoptive family.

The first step in infant adoption is usually to contact an adoption professional or agency. They will help you understand your options and give you information about the infant adoption process. With Texas Adoption Center, you can rest assured that you will have control of the process and that we’ll provide all the support you need along the way.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us so we can answer all of your questions. You can text us at 361-461-3742 or fill out our contact form, and our local adoption specialist will get back to you immediately.

The infant adoption process typically works like this:

  • You will work with an experienced adoption specialist who will guide you through the adoption process and provide support every step of the way.
  • You will choose the adoptive family that you feel is the best match for your child.
  • Once you have selected an adoptive family, we will begin working on the legal paperwork.
  • Once the baby is born, you can spend as much or as little time with them as you want before they go home with the adoptive family you chose.
  • You will have the option to stay in touch with the adoptive family and your child through letters, emails, phone calls, and/or visits.

When you’re ready to choose a family for your infant, we will provide you with all the information and resources you need to make an informed decision. You can also select the family you want based on their interests, parenting style, and more. Once you’ve chosen a family, you can begin developing a relationship with them if you wish. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and we want you to be confident in your choice.

You also get to decide how your time at the hospital will be spent, and we will help you through what to expect. After the baby is born, Texas law requires you to wait at least two days (48 hours) before you can permanently relinquish your parental rights and legally move forward with the adoption. During those two days, our adoption specialist will be with you to provide ongoing support, and the adoptive family is usually there unless you prefer a different arrangement. The key decisions are yours, and you will never be pressured to do anything you’re not comfortable with.

What Happens After The Infant Adoption Process?

After you adopt an infant, the next steps will depend on the type of adoption plan you choose. Some mothers opt to stay in contact with the adoptive family, which can involve exchanging letters and pictures or personal visits. Ultimately, it’s up to you what level of contact you want to maintain. These decisions are made in advance and reflect what you want for yourself and your child.

The most important thing after the infant adoption process is that your child is placed in a loving home with parents who will provide them with everything they need to thrive. It is also essential that you feel confident and comfortable with your decision to place your infant for adoption. 

Overall, the infant adoption process can be an emotional experience for everyone involved. With the right support, it can also be an incredibly rewarding one.

If you have any questions about the infant adoption process or what to expect after, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our adoption specialists at Texas Adoption Center. We’re here to answer your questions and provide the support you need every step of the way. Call us today.

How Long Does The Adoption Process Take?

The adoption process can seem like a long and daunting journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Every adoption process is unique and depends on factors such as the agency you work with, your circumstances, and the details of the prospective birth mother’s life. However, there are some things you can keep in mind that will impact how long it takes to adopt a child.

For hopeful adoptive parents, one of the biggest considerations when selecting an adoption center should be how long the agency typically takes to place a child with a family. If you’re an expectant mother considering adoption for your child, this guide will provide you with more information on how the process works and how long it may take.

Understanding How The Adoption Process Works

The first step in understanding how long the adoption process might take is learning how it works. Agencies like Texas Adoption Center facilitate adoptions by working with both expectant parents and prospective adoptive families.

We work to get to know both our adoptive families and our birth mothers so we can identify the best match. Prospective adoptive parents must complete a home study to ensure they are prepared to provide a safe and loving home for a child.

After the home study is complete, the agency will work to find a match between the prospective adoptive family and an expectant mother. The matching process can take some time, but once a match is found, the adoption process can move much faster.

The expectant mother will be given information about prospective adoptive families and may decide to proceed with an adoptive match. If both parties agree to move forward, the agency will then work to draw up the paperwork.

The last step in the adoption process is the placement of the child with the adoptive family. This usually takes place in the hospital after the baby is born, but in some cases, it may occur long after the birth.

Adoption Process FAQs

Now that you understand how the adoption process works, let’s take a look at how long it might take to complete each step by answering some frequently asked questions. 

How Long Does The Home Study Process Take?

Home study is one of the first steps in the adoption process, and it’s also one of the most important. The home study ensures that prospective adoptive families are prepared to provide a safe and loving home for a child.

The home study process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the state you live in and how quickly you can complete the required paperwork and home visits.

How Long Does It Take To Find A Match?

The matching process is also a key step in the adoption process, and it’s also one of the most unpredictable. The agency will work to find a match between the prospective adoptive family and an expectant mother. Matching means finding a prospective adoptive family who meets the expectant mother’s specific criteria and wishes. 

The amount of time it takes to find a match will vary depending on the agency you’re working with and how specific the criteria. It’s important to remember that finding the best match is more important than finding a match quickly, so try to be patient during this process.

How Long Does It Take To Place The Child With The Adoptive Family?

The next step in the adoption process is the placement of the child with the adoptive family, which usually takes place in the hospital. Texas Adoption Center usually matches expectant moms after they reach 25 weeks gestation in their pregnancy. However, do note that in the state of Texas, the birth mother is required to keep parental rights for 48 hours postpartum. After this time has passed, the mother is free to sign the paperwork.

The amount of time it takes to place the child with the adoptive family will vary depending on the situation. If everything goes smoothly, the process can be completed in several days. Texas Adoption Center can expedite matching in unique situations, such as an expectant mother calling in labor or after the baby is already born. 

I Am The Birth Mother. How Long Will The Adoption Process Take For Me?

For expectant  ]mothers who are looking to place their baby for adoption, the process can vary depending on how much time they need to make their decision and how quickly they’re able to complete the paperwork.

The decision to place your child for adoption is a very personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. Some mothers know immediately that they want to place their child for adoption, while others need some time to make their decision. You can begin the adoption process as soon as you find out that you are pregnant, but there really is no set time to start. You can even start after birth. It is never too late. 

If you’re considering placement and need help with housing and finances, the first step is to contact an adoption agency. The agency will then work with you from start to finish. Once the paperwork is complete, the agency will work to find a prospective adoptive family that meets your specific criteria. We can guide you through the process at your own pace to ensure that you are 100% at peace with your choice of adoptive family.

How Texas Adoption Center Can Help

The adoption process is a long and challenging one, but it’s worth it for the families who complete it. If you’re thinking about adopting, be sure to do your research and choose an experienced adoption agency with a positive history and verifiable experience in the field.

Texas Adoption Center is an organization that has been helping birth mothers and families for many years. We understand the ins and outs of the adoption process and can help you navigate the complexities of the system.

If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help you adopt a child or place your baby for adoption, please contact us today. Give us a call at 844.893.7943 or text 361.461.3742 to speak with a Texas Adoption Center adoption specialist to learn your next steps and start the adoption process.

We’re here to help you every step of the way.

How To Start The Adoption Process: 11 Things You Need To Know

Wherever you are in your adoption journey, whether you are just starting to research adoption or have already decided that you’re ready for the first step, you likely have questions about how it works. The thought may seem daunting, but the adoption process doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming.

At the Texas Adoption Center, we want to help make your adoption journey as smooth and stress-free as possible, so we’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know about how to start the adoption process.

What You Need to Know About Starting the Adoption Process

Adopting a child is a big decision, but it’s also an exciting one. If you’re thinking about getting started, here are 11 things you need to know:

The first thing you need to know about adoption is that it is a legal process. This means that there are certain paperwork and steps that need to be followed for everything to be done correctly and lawfully.

2. It can take some time.

Adding a new member to your family through adoption takes time. Although there are ways to speed up the process, it’s important to be prepared for it to take several months or even longer.

3. You will need to meet certain requirements.

To be eligible to adopt, you will need to meet certain requirements set by the state in which you live. These requirements may include factors like being over a certain age, being financially stable, and having a clean record.

4. The cost of adoption can vary.

Adopting a child can be costly, but there are ways to offset the cost. Some employers offer adoption benefits, and there are also tax credits and grants available.

5. You will need to choose an adoption agency or attorney.

An adoption agency and/or attorney can help you navigate the legal process and provide support throughout your journey. It is important to choose one that you feel comfortable with and that you can trust.

6. You need to complete a home study.

An important part of the adoption process is the home study, which is required for you to be approved as an adoptive parent. The home study involves things like a background check, financial stability assessment, and home visit. The goal is to make sure that you are ready and able to provide a safe and loving home for a child.

7. You will need to create an adoption profile.

Your adoption profile is how expectant mothers will learn about you and decide if you’re the right family for their child. Your profile should include things like your personal story, your interests and hobbies, and photos of your family.

8. You need to wait for a match.

Once you have created your adoption profile, you will need to wait for a match with an expectant mother. This can be a time of anxious waiting, but it’s important to trust in the process and know that the right match will come along when the time is right.

9. You must complete an adoption placement agreement.

Once you have been matched with an expectant mother, you will need to complete an adoptive match agreement. This agreement outlines the roles and responsibilities of both parties during the pregnancy and after the child is born.

10. You will travel for the birth and adoptive placement.

In most cases, you will need to travel to meet the expectant mother and/or to be present for the child’s birth, depending on whether it is an open or closed adoption. This can add some extra expense to the adoption, but it is important to be there for such an important moment. In Texas, a minimum of 48 hours must pass after the child is born in order for the relinquishment of parental rights to be signed by the birth parents.  Prospective adoptive parents will sign an agreement for placement and supervision to take placement of the child. 

11. You must finalize the adoption.

After the post-placement supervision period is complete, you need to finalize the adoption through the court system. This can be done with the help of an attorney and a qualified agency, and it usually takes a few months to complete.

How Texas Adoption Center Can Help

At Texas Adoption Center, we follow a four-step process to help you get started on your adoption journey. When you get in touch with us, we will send you a free information packet that details who we are, how we can help you, eligibility requirements, and other important details.

Once you’ve submitted an inquiry, we move to the adoptive parent pre-application process and then to the pre-application review, which our team conducts at the start of every week. After your pre-application is approved, we proceed to the application and intake phase so we can get to know each other better. Once everything is in order, we joyfully move forward to presenting expectant mother cases and discussing your options.

We understand how overwhelming the adoption process can be, but our goal is to make it a positive and seamless experience for you. If you have any questions or would like more information about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here for you every step of the way.