What will life after making an adoption plan look like?
If you are pregnant and thinking about adoption for your baby, it’s important to know you are NOT giving up. Yet, there will be several questions that you will have about the entire adoption process. The big question of what happens after the actual adoption process is over is typically a question that comes to mind. This may be a question that you need answers to in order to even take the first step. At Lifeline, we believe an informed decision is the best decision. When it comes to the questions you have about what happens after the adoption process, we want to also provide you clear and honest answers so that you will be prepared.
So what really happens in the hospital after my baby is born?
When you meet with your pregnancy counselor to make a plan for the hospital stay, you get to decide what the hospital time will look like, including your interactions with your baby. Lifeline’s approach is centered around you and your wishes. Click here to read more about planning time with your baby in the hospital.
Will I have anyone to talk to once the adoption is final? What if I still need counseling and support? Will I have to pay for this or find out how to get it?
We are available to you for a lifetime of support after placement, and there is never a cost to you. Our heart at Lifeline is to support each and every woman we come in contact with. We desire to serve women in every area of their lives, which includes birthmothers, not only during the pregnancy but also after they have placed a child. Lifeline’s Pregnancy Counselors truly care about the birth moms they serve and provide support post-adoption.
I am not sure how sad I will be after I make an adoption plan. How long do birthmothers grieve?
Adoption is a beautiful option, but with every option in an unplanned pregnancy, there will be a complicated mix of emotions. You may feel love, grief, wonder, sadness, peace, hope. Not only does the body need time to recover after pregnancy and delivery, but the heart also needs time to heal. It is important to think through how these emotions will be present with each option. Some of the best decisions you will make in your life will also be some of the hardest decisions. One of the best ways to pursue healing is talking through any difficult feelings with your pregnancy counselor. We are always here for you and will never pressure you to talk with your Lifeline counselor, but it is our joy to walk alongside you in the healing process if you desire that support. Processing feelings with your pregnancy counselor can help with the transition back into everyday life and to help your heart continue to heal and be reminded of the why in your decision. We also have an online community where you can connect with other women just like you.
When will I get to see my baby again after I leave the hospital?
Yes, if this is something you desire. Most adoptions will start semi-open and Lifeline can help facilitate and navigate the relationship between you, the adoptive parents, and the child. Then, as you get to know each other better, the relationship may progress from there. We will help you think through what level of openness you desire. The adoptive parents you choose will be committed to the level of openness that you choose. Lifeline families chose Lifeline as their agency because of our commitment to you and their desire to know you.
These are all great questions to have as you consider making an adoption plan for your child. Lifeline’s Pregnancy Counselors are here for you and are ready to answer all of your questions. You are not alone in this adoption journey and you are not alone after the adoption takes place.