How Does Giving A Baby Up for Adoption Work? | Your Step-by-Step Guide

how does giving a baby up for adoption work

How does giving a baby up for adoption work?

This is one of the most common questions that we get from birth mothers. It’s a good question. The process can seem daunting at first, especially if you’re still in the mindset that adoption means “giving up” your child as opposed to placing them in a loving and caring home.

The experienced adoption specialists at Texas Adoption Center can help. Let’s take a look at how adoption works, step-by-step.

How Does Giving A Baby Up for Adoption Work? | Step-by-Step Guide

Take the First Step

The first step, after you’ve decided that adoption is the best choice for you, is to reach out to a local adoption center. You want to pick a center that you feel comfortable with – one that has a history of working closely with their birth mothers to ensure that all parties involved in the adoption are happy and content.

A local adoption center like Texas Adoption Center offers personalized care from experienced professionals who want to empower you to make the best decision for your life. Reaching out to the adoption center of your choice is the best way to get the adoption process started.

Design Your Adoption Plan

There are three different types of adoptions from which to choose. This includes open, semi-open, and closed.

Open Adoptions

Open adoptions, as the name implies, are adoptions where the communication and relationship between birth mother and adoptive parents is an open one. You have the chance to build a relationship with the adoptive family on your own terms and decide how you want the adoption to proceed. For some birth mothers, that means visiting the child in person. For others, it means receiving letters or emails, or even regular text messages, with updates.

Semi-Open Adoptions

This kind of adoption is similar to open adoptions, but the relationship once the child is placed is a bit different. Instead of direct communication and potentially in-person visits, semi-open adoptions include the possibility of letter or picture updates instead.

Closed Adoptions

Closed adoptions are a bit different. An adoption specialist generally chooses the right fit for your baby in closed adoptions, and you have minimal contact with the potential adoptive family. Note that this is by your choice – you get to decide how you want the process to proceed.

Once you know the best adoption for you, it’s time to move on to the next step.

Choose a Family

Now you understand how the process works and what to expect depending upon the type of adoption you pick, but how do you find a family? Well, Texas Adoption Center happens to work with incredible families who want nothing more than to adopt. You’ll get as much information as you’d like in order to pick potential families. Once you decide, you can start getting to know them (if you’d like – it’s all up to you). You can see some of our families here.

Next Steps

When you’ve planned the adoption process and have a family lined up, it’s time to focus on staying as healthy and happy as possible. If that means that you need help getting to or from doctor’s appointments or need help covering medical expenses, Texas Adoption Center can help.

Conclusion

Are you thinking about placing your baby for adoption? The adoption specialists at Texas Adoption Center are here to support you. Reach out to us for more information and to get the adoption process started.

Infant Adoption in Texas: 5 Things to Know

infant adoption in texas

Pregnancy can be a beautiful time in a woman’s life, but if the pregnancy is unplanned, it may also be stressful.

  • You might be worried that you lack the resources for both a healthy pregnancy and for raising a child.
  • You may be uncertain about your options for infant adoption in Texas.
  • Or perhaps, whether or not placing your baby for adoption means losing contact with your child.
  • You may also wonder whether you should work with a local adoption center or a national agency.

Texas Adoption Center can help you work through these questions about infant adoption in Texas and reach a solution.

How Does Infant Adoption in Texas Work?

Local Is Best

There are several reasons that a local adoption center might be a better choice than a national agency. To start, local adoption centers are more likely to meet face-to-face. This involves meetings with the adoption specialist, meeting with the adoptive family, and more!

Additionally, as you may know, there are many laws regarding adoption that differ from state to state. Because of this, if you work with a local center, you can rest assured that they are familiar with the local laws.

And from an adoptive family’s perspective, the process of working with a local center may be less costly and more personal than working with a national one.

There Are Three Types of Adoption

There are three primary types of adoption: closed, semi-open, and open. To start, a closed adoption is a more traditional approach in which the birth mother and adoptive parents do not have any contact and the birth parent does not receive updates on the child.

On the other end of the spectrum, in an open adoption, the birth mother chooses the family and is as involved with them as she wishes to be. A semi-open adoption falls somewhere in the middle and allows mothers to receive updates without having personal contact. You can decide which type of adoption is best for you and your baby!

You Can Choose To Meet the Family – Or Not

One factor in choosing the type of adoption is related to whether or not you want to meet the family. This is your choice. This may mean meeting the adoptive family, having occasional contact with them before the adoption, or even having an ongoing relationship after delivery! The degree of contact is up to you.

You Can Get Financial Assistance

One potential challenge for many adoptive mothers is financial issues. At Texas Adoption Center, we may be able to help with groceries, utilities, and other essentials. We can also help with pregnancy-related transportation to do things like run errands or go to doctors appointments.

Regardless of your situation, the health and safety of you and your baby is our number one priority. We will assess your individual situation and help where needed.

We Have Locations Near You

You might be worried about finding a center that is close enough to offer the help you need with infant adoption in Texas. If you visit the “Contact Us” section on our website, you will see that there are many locations for Texas Adoption Center throughout the state!

Infant Adoption in Texas with Texas Adoption Center

If you are currently considering your options, you may feel anxious, alone, and indecisive. This is perfectly okay! The loving adoption specialists at Texas Adoption Center are dedicated to listening to your story and providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Contact us via our website, by email, by text at 361-461-3742 or by phone at 844-893-7943 to discuss your situation and how we may be able to help you. We thoroughly explain our process and the options available to you to place your baby for adoption. We can’t wait to hear from you!

The Best Adoption Agency in McAllen, Texas

best adoption agency mcallen texas

While beautiful, adoption is also a sensitive time for many women. Because of this, every birth mother deserves to feel safe, secure, and cared for throughout her pregnancy. No one needs to go through this process alone, which is why Texas Adoption Center provides loving, supportive services to pregnant women considering adoption. We don’t want to just say we’re the best adoption agency in McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley. We want to prove it.

Who is Texas Adoption Center?

We are a full-service, nonprofit adoption center with locations throughout the State of Texas. Our highly-trained Adoption Specialists work with birth mothers directly, offering a hand to hold, an ear to listen, and unconditional support. Whether you simply need someone to speak to or have specific questions about adoption, we are here for you.

So, let’s move on to the important details. How exactly does Texas Adoption Center help birth mothers?

How We Can Help

Like we mentioned before, we believe that no one should go through pregnancy alone. Of course, this includes emotional support, but there are a few other important factors to consider. Financial and medical needs are often a huge concern in placing your baby for adoption. In fact, these may be two of your main worries at the moment.

Luckily, Texas Adoption Center sits down with mothers to listen to their story in detail and help in whatever way possible. If you are struggling financially and do not have your medical needs met, you will find comfort in our wide range of services.

This includes help with utilities, groceries, phone bills, gas or bus fares, and even housing. If you need help finding, paying for, or getting to a doctor, we are happy to help with that, too.

Caring means more than just helping with the bills, though. Our Adoption Specialists seek to meet all of a birth mother’s needs, including referrals to counseling and adoption-related education. Regardless of whether or not you have support from family and friends, you can rely on Texas Adoption Center. Each Specialist serves as a loving friend and confidant.

The Best Adoption Agency in McAllen

We are a local adoption center with close ties to our community. Texas Adoption Center provides the kind of attention to detail and personal concern national adoption organizations struggle to provide.

We connect with women in person, serving as a friendly face and a helpful ally. To facilitate the best possible arrangements, we consult closely with birth mothers, ensuring their emotional, financial, and medical needs are met while we work through our network to find prospective adoptive families. We are there every step of the way. When it comes to the best adoption agency in McAllen, we are serious about our commitment to the safety, security, and happiness of each and every birth mother.

With that being said, Texas Adoption Center is the best choice for women considering adoption because we are dedicated, caring, professional, and close by when we are needed.

If you’re interested in contacting your local Adoption Specialist, please call us at 844.893.7943, text us at 361.461.3742, or visit one of our locations in person to start the conversation. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Giving Up a Baby for Adoption at Birth

giving up a baby for adoption at birth

Giving up a baby for adoption at birth is a lovely decision that affects both the mother and the child. First of all, we should start by noting that you are not, in any way, “giving up”. Rather, you are making a selfless and courageous decision to give your baby a beautiful life.

Second, we would also like to mention that there is no right or wrong choice. Because of this, all women deserve to know the options available to them so that they can make an informed decision and decide what is best for themselves and their baby.

With that being said, regardless of what stage you are in your pregnancy, adoption can be an option for you. The earlier you can get in touch with an Adoption Specialist, the better; however, we are able to meet you where you are and help in whatever way we can. So, let’s get started!

Step #1: Reach Out

Whether you are currently pregnant or have already delivered, the first step looks the same – reach out to one of our loving and supportive Adoption Specialists. If you decide on adoption, we will begin working with you to determine your hopes and dreams for yourself and your baby.

Step #2: Your Vision

A natural starting point for us is to simply listen to you – what goals and aspirations have you set for yourself? What hopes and wants do you have for your baby? What vision do you have for the family that your baby will be placed with? These are all questions that we take very seriously. The happiness of you and your baby are always our focus.

Step #3: Find a Family

Now comes the fun part – finding a family! We have many approved families who have waited a long time to be parents who will be overjoyed to welcome your baby into their lives. Of course, if you decide that you would rather us find a family for you, we would be happy to. However, most mothers enjoy hand selecting the perfect family for their baby.

We will supply you with an endless amount of pictures, information, and stories about each family to help you make your choice. Once we find a family, we can move on to the next step – open or closed adoption?

Step #4: Design an Adoption Plan

After choosing the adoptive family, you now have the chance to decide on the level of communication that you wish to have with the family. You can meet the family ahead of time, see them at the hospital after you deliver, and even schedule visits to see the family after the adoption!

Another option is communicating solely through phone calls, text, emails, or letters. However, some mothers also choose to not have any contact with the family before, during, and after the adoption. The great thing about designing an adoption plan is that it’s all up to you! These same options are available to mothers who are currently pregnant or have already delivered.

Step #5: It’s Time!

After months of planning, finding the perfect family for your baby, and executing on your adoption plan, it’s finally time!

When it comes to the technicality of placing your child for adoption, Texas law states that mothers must wait 48 hours before an adoption can legally take place. In this time, you can choose to be with your baby or the adoptive family, or let the adoptive family spend time with your little one.

Texas Adoption Center

When all is said and done, if you have asked yourself, “How can I go about giving up a baby for adoption at birth?”, you’re at the right place. We care about you, we care about your baby, and we care about you being well represented, listened to, and supported throughout the entire adoption journey.

“Whatever you choose, we will continue providing you with support for as long as you need us. We’re here for you. We always will be.”

— Texas Adoption Center

If you’re seeking support and understanding, reach out to chat with one of our Adoption Specialists. We’re excited to hear from you!

Pros and Cons of Creating an Adoption Plan For Your Baby

pros and cons of putting a baby up for adoption

Placing your baby for adoption is never an easy choice. As you may be experiencing, it seems as though there are an endless amount of factors to consider. In order to make an informed choice, it is important to look at all of the positives and negatives. This is especially true when weighing the pros and cons of putting a baby creating an adoption plan for your baby.

In order to make the best decision for you and your baby, it is important to gather all the information that you possibly can, consider the pros and cons of either choice, and spend time in thought. To help along in this process, today, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of adoption.

Pros of Creating an Adoption Plan For Your Baby

1. You get control over the entire adoption plan

During the whole adoption process, you are in the driver’s seat. An Adoption Specialist will help you to create an adoption plan that is best for you and your baby. Your wants, needs, and requests will be at the forefront of any decision that is made. After the plan is created, you will be matched with a family that is comfortable with the same plan! Which brings us to our next point…

2. You get to choose the adoptive parents (or not!)

We know how important it is for you to feel confident in knowing that the adoptive family wants the same things for your baby that you do. Because of this, we encourage and empower birth mothers to hand select a family of their choosing. We will supply you with endless pictures, stories, and information so that you can make the best choice.

And if you would rather not choose the family? We will listen to all of your wants and requests to find the perfect fit for you.  Regardless, you will feel comfortable knowing that your baby is going to a loving home and will be adored forever.

3. You can meet the adoptive family (or not!)

If you choose to hand-select the adoptive family, you can also decide on what kind of relationship you would like to have with them. You can even begin building this relationship before delivery! Many expectant mothers choose to exchange phone or email information. Some moms even choose to meet the adoptive family in person!

You may also choose not to have a relationship with the adoptive family. Either way, you can know that you are making the best choice for you and your baby.

4. You have control over future contact

After delivery, you get to choose if you would like to remain in contact with the family through scheduling visits, receiving updates through letters or email, or maintaining little to no contact. These different communication levels are generally seen in three different groups: an open adoption, a semi-open adoption, or a closed adoption.

There is no right answer for everyone, it’s just what works best for you. Each adoption plan is unique in its own way. If you would like to read more about these adoption styles and see which one is best for you, click here.

5. You will know that your child is loved and supported

As a birth mom, you are placing your baby for adoption to give them the best life possible. Giving an adoptive family the chance to fulfill their dreams of parenthood is the purest act of love. In exchange, the adoptive family will pour all the love that they have into raising your baby. If you choose an open adoption, you will get to witness this first hand through visits, pictures, or letters.

Cons of Creating an Adoption Plan For Your Baby

1. Experiencing, at times, overwhelming emotions

It’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed and stressed when facing an unplanned pregnancy. At this point, things may feel a bit out of your control. But, as you team up with an Adoption Specialist from Texas Adoption Center, you will soon feel encouraged and in control. The feelings of helplessness that you may feel right now will soon turn into empowerment and purpose.

Throughout the rest of your pregnancy and even after delivery, you may feel overswept with emotion. This, too, is natural. Luckily, our loving Adoption Specialists work around the clock to listen to and support you. We will continue to provide support as long as you need us to.

2. You aren’t raising the baby, but isn’t that the whole point?

It is true that placing your baby for adoption means that you won’t be raising them. However, you are looking to provide the best life for your child, and sometimes that means finding adoptive parents with a loving home.

Of course, you will still experience grief from time to time. This is completely normal and expected. However, many birth moms find peace and comfort in knowing that they have done what is best for them and their child.

When a birth momma was shown a few pictures of her baby after the adoption, she responded, “I find myself just looking at his face. He looks peaceful and happy. I’m thankful he has such a loving family to call his own.”

Reach Out to Texas Adoption Center

Reaching out to a caring, local adoption center is the first step in finding out which option is best for you and your baby. There are plenty of pros and cons of creating an adoption plan for your baby, but the loving, judgment-free Adoption Specialists at Texas Adoption Center can empower you and care for you every step of the way.

To speak to Texas Adoption Center, contact us online or call (512) 893-7943. We are happy to take your call any time of day.

“I don’t want this baby inside me.” | A Guide to Your Options

i dont want this baby inside me

Ding. The 3-minute timer ends and you hesitate before peering over at the pregnancy test. Looking down, you see the infamous two lines — positive. But, even if your immediate thought was “I don’t want this baby inside me,” that’s okay.

Each woman has their own unique experience when hearing the news of their unplanned pregnancy. But, even though you have a tough choice ahead of you, take a deep breath and know that you have many choices. Three of the most common paths include:

  • Terminate the pregnancy
  • Carry to term, then place the baby for adoption
  • Carry to term, then parent the child

In today’s post, we’re going to dive a bit deeper into each of these options.

1. Abortion

We understand that abortion is oftentimes hard to talk about. However, it is an option that’s available. Throughout your decision process, know that you are the only one who can choose the best option for you and your baby.

Since abortion is a permanent decision, we recommend taking several days to gather as much information as you can so that you can make an informed choice. Although online research can be helpful, it is best to speak with your doctor. This way, you can learn more about what an abortion would involve.

It is also important to consider the legality of abortion in your state. Each state has different laws regarding abortion that may have an effect on your final decision.

2. Adoption

If you choose to carry to term, adoption is an option. Adoption is a beautiful option that allows you to hand select a loving family to raise your baby. Although it may seem as though you are “giving away” your baby, that is far from the truth. You are placing your baby with a caring family who will make sure the child has a life full of opportunities.

Throughout the entire adoption process, you are in the driver’s seat. With help from an Adoption Specialist, you will be able to create an individualized plan that is best for you and your baby. This includes everything from choosing the adoptive family to deciding how much contact you would like to maintain with them before and after the adoption.

Many adoption programs also give assistance to birth mothers. For example, at Texas Adoption Center, birth moms can receive financial relief for transportation to and from pregnancy-related appointments, groceries, housing costs, and more.

3. Parenting

Raising a child is a beautiful experience and comes a lot of responsibility. Before deciding to parent, be sure to spend a lot of time in thought and consider whether you are ready or not.

Consider the costs of parenting, the support available to you from family, friends, or a partner, and if you are emotionally ready to put your child’s needs before your own. Every situation is different for every expecting mother, so it is important to think about what’s truly best for you and your baby.

Our Adoption Specialists are available to help you think through all of your options. Together, you can weigh the pros and cons so that you can make the best decision for you and your baby. You will be empowered and supported unconditionally, regardless of what option you choose.

Do you need to talk?

At Texas Adoption Center, we are committed to taking care of birth moms. If you find yourself saying, “I don’t want this baby inside me,” you are not alone and we are here for you. We know you have a huge decision to make and we would like to support you through this journey. To start, check out a few additional resources we have created:

If you still have questions, please reach out to our team for guidance! Call us today at (512) 893-7943 or send us a text at (361) 461-3742. We can’t wait to hear from you.  

Facing an Unplanned Pregnancy Alone? You Have Options

facing an unplanned pregnancy alone

Facing an unplanned pregnancy alone is difficult. You don’t know what to do, but you know that you need help. You may even have a sense of confusion and distress about what decisions to make and how to make them.

While the process of facing an unplanned pregnancy alone can leave you feeling isolated, the experts at the Texas Adoption Center will make you feel at home. We understand how birth mothers feel when they’re going through an unplanned pregnancy and we’re here to help.

Here are a few of options we can guide you through:

Raising Your Child

Parenting is a life-changing journey and some women we work with decide to embrace motherhood. If that’s something you want to explore, we’ll give you all the resources you need to make that decision. We are equipped to provide you with the education and emotional resources you need to raise a healthy baby.

Terminating the Pregnancy

No one likes to talk about abortion, but we approach the subject in a respectful and intentional way. It’s not a decision that can be undone and shouldn’t be taken lightly. We arm you with resources, counseling, and judgment-free support.

Choosing Adoption

Although the process may seem daunting at first, our Adoption Specialists are trained to make adoption as simple as possible. We take care of our birth mothers and give them emotional, financial, and housing support when they need it. We also ensure that our birth mothers deliver their babies in the most comfortable and safe manner.

When you decide to place your baby for adoption, one of our dedicated specialists will become your friend, guide, and support system. She will help design an adoption plan that’s specially customized to suit your needs.

If you’re worried about medical bills, emotional support, financial support, or grocery bills, our specialists are here to make sure you have what you need. When it’s time to choose a family for your child, we empower you to make the choice that feels best for you and your baby.

It’s our job to make the adoption process as smooth as possible so mothers are happy and healthy throughout the process.

How to Take the First Step

Taking the first step is simple–call us at 512-893-7943 or send us a text at 361-461-3742. We will provide the support you need for a safe transition into the next phase of your life when facing an unplanned pregnancy alone.

We’re a non-judgmental and empathetic group of women who understand your needs when it comes to unplanned pregnancies. We help our birth mothers take control over their decisions and make informed choices for their unique situation.

With multiple options that provide flexibility, care, and varying levels of communication, birth mothers can choose the path that is best for them and their child.

Best Adoption Agency in Austin, TX

best adoption agency in austin tx

If you’re pregnant and considering adoption in Austin, you’ll want to partner with the best adoption agency in Austin, TX. Only the best for your baby, right? You and your baby deserve to work with an agency that will embrace, support, guide, and walk alongside you on your adoption journey.

That’s where Texas Adoption Center comes in. We’ve been serving our Texas community for more than 20 years. Our agency is a program of A World For Children, a nonprofit organization serving children and families all over the state.  

As a full-service adoption agency, we guide birth mothers through the entire adoption process with professionalism, compassion, and a whole lot of Southern hospitality! When you work with us, you become family. We will treat you as such, supporting and rooting for you for the rest of your life.

Call 844-893-7943 to speak with one of our incredible Adoption Specialists today! Here’s a look at a few reasons why Texas Adoption Center is the best adoption agency in Austin, TX.

Comprehensive Care and Attention

As an adoption agency, we’re modern and sophisticated. However, we’re also very down to earth! We believe in taking care of our birth mothers, making sure they get the highest level of care.

Our goal is to make sure that our birth mothers and adoptive families are heard, supported and loved. We look forward to creating a bright future for you and your child through adoption and to supporting all parties involved in the adoption process.

Community Recommendations

The Texas Adoption Center has been recommended many times over by our birth mothers and families because of our commitment to quality service and care. We’re an active member of the Austin, Texas community and love engaging with birth mothers who want to pursue adoption.

Take a look at our Facebook reviews here!

Medical, Financial and Housing Support

We offer a range of medical, financial, and emotional support to our birth moms. We will help you out every step of the way! In the past, we’ve helped birth mothers find safe housing and great healthcare coverage. We’ve also helped them pay phone, grocery, and utility bills, and secure transportation to pregnancy-related appointments and errands.

Additionally, our birth mothers can choose the type of adoption process they want and have complete control of their level of communication with adoptive families. If you are a birth mother and want more information about your options, our adoption experts are available 24/7 to help you.

Get in Touch with Us

We want to talk to you! Whether you’ve decided on adoption or want to learn more about the options available, you can give us a call at 844.893.7943 or shoot a text to 361.461.3742 to speak to our Adoption Specialists. They work with our birth mothers every day who want to provide their children with a great home.

Take the first step towards taking control of your future. Reach out to us today!