Open, Semi-Open, and Closed Adoption
When considering adoption, one of the first decisions you’ll make is how much contact you want with the adoptive family and your child. There is no right or wrong choice — it’s about what feels best for you.
Open Adoption
In an open adoption, you have direct contact with the adoptive family and, in many cases, your child. This might include phone calls, emails, photos, video chats, and in-person visits. You and the adoptive family agree on the level and frequency of communication that works for everyone involved. Many birth mothers choose this option to stay connected and see their child grow.
Semi-Open Adoption
A semi-open adoption provides some level of communication, often through the agency. You may receive updates, photos, and letters, but personal details are kept private. This option gives you a balance of privacy and connection without direct contact.
Closed Adoption
In a closed adoption, there is no ongoing contact between you and the adoptive family after placement. This can be the right choice for women who prefer privacy or need emotional distance. All identifying information is kept confidential, and the records are sealed.
Our team will help you explore these options in depth and choose what’s best for your emotional well-being, both now and in the future.
Choosing the Right Adoptive Family
You have the right to choose the family you feel is best — and we’re here to help make that process easy and empowering.
We work with a wide range of pre-screened, home-study-approved families who are excited to grow their families through adoption. Each family creates a detailed profile with photos, videos, and personal information, so you can get a sense of who they are and what life they offer.
You might consider:
- Their values, interests, and lifestyle
- Religious or cultural background
- Whether they already have children
- Location and home environment
- Their views on open adoption
Some birth mothers immediately connect with a family they see in a profile. Others want to meet or speak with several families before deciding. You are never rushed or pressured. You’re in control of this choice, and we’ll support you every step of the way.
Customizing Your Adoption Plan
Every woman’s situation is unique, and your adoption plan should reflect your needs, preferences, and comfort level. You’ll work with a caring adoption specialist to create a plan that outlines how your adoption journey will look — from now until after delivery.
Your plan may include:
- The type of adoption you prefer (open, semi-open, closed)
- The adoptive family you choose
- How and when you want to communicate with the family
- Your birth and hospital plan
- Post-placement contact and support
You can also decide things like:
- Who’s in the delivery room
- Whether you want time alone with your baby
- How the placement will happen
- What kind of updates you want in the future
You can update your plan at any time. We’ll check in regularly to make sure you feel good about your choices. This is your plan, your pregnancy, and your adoption — we’re just here to support you through it.