How to Start the Adoption Process in Florida When You’re Pregnant and Unsure

If you’re pregnant and unsure whether you’re ready to parent, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to have all the answers right now. At Gift of Life Adoptions, we work with women across Florida who are exploring their options with compassion, care, and no pressure.

You may be wondering:

• What does the adoption process look like?
• Can I choose the family?
• What are my rights as a birth mother in Florida?

This guide walks you through how to begin the adoption process in Florida, even if you’re just considering it and haven’t made a final decision.

Step 1: Know That You Are in Control of This Process

The first thing to understand is that adoption is your choice. Nothing happens unless and until you’re ready. Whether you’re early in your pregnancy, nearing your due date, or have already given birth, you still have the right to explore adoption and make a plan that fits your life and your child’s future.

At Gift of Life Adoptions, we’ll meet you wherever you are emotionally and physically—whether that’s in person, on the phone, or online.

Step 2: Talk to an Adoption Professional You Can Trust

Your next step is to connect with a licensed adoption agency in Florida that is focused on your needs, not just the placement. At Gift of Life Adoptions, you’ll speak with an experienced, compassionate counselor who will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your options clearly and honestly.

You can ask us about:

• What an adoption plan includes
• Choosing the adoptive family
• What financial assistance may be available
• Your rights and how Florida adoption law works
• What open or semi-open adoption might look like for you

You are never under any obligation to continue. Our goal is to support you as you explore whether adoption is the right path for you.

Step 3: Learn About Your Options and Create a Personalized Plan

If you decide adoption might be a good fit, your adoption counselor will help you build a custom adoption plan. This includes decisions like:

• Who will adopt your baby – You can view profiles of waiting adoptive families in Florida and nationwide and even meet them if you’d like.
• Type of adoption – Choose between open, semi-open, or closed adoption based on the level of contact you feel comfortable with.
• Hospital and delivery plan – Decide who will be with you during labor, how much time you’d like with your baby, and what support you need during and after delivery.
• Post-placement support – Counseling, connection, and ongoing communication based on your preferences.

Every step of the process is centered around your comfort, your choices, and your emotional well-being.

Step 4: Understand Florida Law and Your Rights as a Birth Mother

Florida adoption law provides strong protections for birth mothers. Here’s what you should know:

• You cannot sign legal consent for adoption until at least 48 hours after the birth of your child.
• You have the right to change your mind at any point before signing the consent.
• You can receive financial help during pregnancy for housing, transportation, maternity clothes, medical expenses, and more—based on what’s allowed under Florida law.
• The birth father’s rights will be addressed legally, and we’ll walk you through what that means in your situation.

We make sure every step is handled ethically, respectfully, and legally so that you feel protected and informed.

Step 5: Take Your Time and Use the Support Available to You

Many women feel unsure at first. That’s okay. Adoption is not something you rush into—and we’ll never push you. Our job is to provide you with guidance, answers, and support while you decide what’s best for your life and your baby.

Gift of Life Adoptions offers:

• Free, confidential counseling before and after placement
• Access to licensed caseworkers across Florida
• Support in hospitals, in your home, or wherever you feel most comfortable
• A 24/7 helpline for questions or emotional support at any stage

You’re Not Alone in This

Facing an unplanned pregnancy is hard, and deciding whether adoption is right takes courage. At Gift of Life Adoptions, we have supported birth mothers across Florida for nearly three decades. Our team is here to walk beside you—not ahead of you—and help you build a future filled with peace, dignity, and hope.

No matter what you decide, we’re here to support you.

If you’re pregnant in Florida and wondering whether adoption might be right for you, we invite you to contact us for a free, private conversation. There’s no pressure—just answers and support from people who care.

📞 Call Us Today: 1-800-216-5433
💬 Text Us Anytime: Send A Message
🌐 Learn More: https://www.giftoflifeadoptions.com/contact

You are strong. You are not alone. And you have options.