5 Facts about Adoption: What to Know as a Birth Mother in Missouri

By Samara Wiley Updated By Jan Douglas

Adoption has significantly changed in the last decade. Adoptions in the past were most likely wholly confidential. The adoption agency did not share any information between the birth mother and the adoptive parents. This method of handling adoption left a stigma around adoption. If you are pregnant and considering adoption, here are some facts to help you better understand the adoption process today.

1. Giving a Child Up For Adoption Is Not “Giving Up”

It is a selfless, loving, and brave choice to place your baby with kind and caring adoptive parents. Doing so means imagining a better life for your unborn baby. A life with the best opportunities, which you may not be in a place to give right now. Choosing adoption means you want what’s best for your child and are doing everything you can to make sure they get that. Adoption can be a beautiful decision for an unplanned pregnancy. Choosing adoption gives your child a chance at a better and brighter future.

2. Various Types of Assistance are Available With Adoption in Missouri

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we take pride in providing all birth mothers with the necessary resources. These include:

• Financial assistance – such as help with rent, transportation, groceries, and more
• Safe housing – we can help you find and afford proper housing so you can find rest
• Medical care access – prenatal care is important; we can help you apply for Medicaid and also make sure you receive proper medical care throughout your pregnancy
• Counseling and Support – your birth mother specialist is always there for you. You will receive post-placement help following the birth and adoption finalization.

3. You Will Have the Opportunity to Select the Adoptive Family

As a birth mom, you can have peace of mind knowing that the adoptive family has gone through a rigorous background check. Additionally, all the families have undergone a home study by one of our adoption specialists. Here is what is involved in a home study checklist. Our adoption agency does not place any limits on age, race, or sexual orientation. We will provide you with several family profiles to review. These profiles contain family photos and a “Dear Birth Mother” letter. The letter details the likes, dislikes, hobbies, etc., of the parents. It gives detailed information about the family. 

4. There are Three Types of Adoption 

When making your adoption plan, you have adoption options. There is no one right way when it comes to present-day adoptions. Adoptions today are flexible, unique, and personalized. The birth mother chooses the type of adoption and will create a plan she feels comfortable with. 

• Open Adoption – This is the best choice if you want to have a direct relationship with the adoptive family and child. You and the adoptive family will agree to have ongoing communication after placement. This type of adoption can include in-person visits. Often you can be a part of the child’s life as they grow up–being there for birthdays, graduations, and other milestones. After selecting the adoptive family, you may invite them to attend your prenatal doctor appointments and even be present for the delivery. The guidelines can change over time. The birth mother and adoptive parents may wish to change things as the child grows up. Nothing is “set in stone,” and you or the adoptive family can alter the adoption plan.
• Closed Adoption – A closed adoption involves complete confidentiality. The only information shared between the birth parent and the adoptive family is the birth mother’s medical history. There are many reasons someone would decide on a closed adoption–the mental health of the birth mother or the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy, such as rape.
• Semi-open Adoption – a birth mother who does not want an open relationship with the child may choose this type of adoption. She wants to be informed about the child and to receive pictures and updates as they grow up. The adoption agency often mediates a semi-open adoption. This option may be suitable for a woman who finds it difficult to move on after the adoption.

5. Working with a Local, Licensed, and Private Adoption Agency is Beneficial

Adoption can be challenging. It takes courage and determination. It can be comforting to have your birth mother specialist nearby. A licensed adoption agency understands Missouri adoption requirements. They will know the birth mother benefits you are eligible for in your state. If you are wondering how to give a baby up for adoption, we are a local and licensed adoption agency. We are private and unique, assisting and supporting around 100 women a year with adoption.