Considering Adoption Pregnant and Homeless Missouri

Considering Adoption When Pregnant and Homeless

February 9, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Considering Adoption When Pregnant and Homeless

No one ever imagines they will become homeless, let alone pregnant and homeless. With costs of living going up and wages stagnating, times are hard. But, simultaneously, they are not hopeless even in the events of our corrupt world. Bad situations don’t last indefinitely, and no one’s struggles are unique to them. There are others who have faced the same situation as you, and the advantage of our modern society is that there are places you can go for help. Naturally, you will be anxious over what will happen to your child, but knowing your options and available help might help you decide your next steps and calm down.

Finding Shelter for Expectant Mothers

The reasons people are homeless can vary, but the fact remains that homeless people are vulnerable to developing further problems. Getting off the street is critical to preventing and solving those problems, as the stress of not having a home can make things harder than they already are. This is especially true of young moms who may not have completed their education and are more likely to be pregnant than similar women with housing. It is necessary to get a mother shelter, healthcare, financial help, and vocational training in all cases.

Local adoption agencies such as Adoption Choices of Missouri offer help with housing and other services. Tell your adoption caseworker your situation, so they can get you safe housing as soon as possible. You may also be able to get help with utilities. In some cases, your child’s adoptive family might be able to help with some expenses such as maternity clothes. Your caseworker will also make sure you get assistance for medical care such as prenatal checkups. It is important to reach out so you can get help as soon as possible.

Problems You Might Face Placing Your Child For Adoption while Homeless

Depending on how long you’ve been homeless, it is possible that you may have developed other problems as a result. Don’t be ashamed to bring them up to your caseworker. Homelessness and housing insecurity put people at risk for numerous problems. Pregnant women in shelters are at higher risk for alcohol and drug abuse as well as anxiety and depression. There is also an increased chance for pregnancy complications and less access to reimbursable healthcare. This can mean that conditions in the fetus may not even be detected. Stigma often leaves services for homeless women underused because housing status goes unreported out of fear they will lose their children.

As expected, existing children will also struggle as a result of homelessness. Families are a growing segment of the homeless population, and most of such families are headed by women. Children are at risk of being put into foster care if authorities find out and may be traumatized by their situation, especially if the family is fleeing domestic violence. Moms may be traumatized at losing their children, and all options are difficult decisions. Adoption is hard as well, but you will be able to pick a loving family that will care for them. Contrary to common belief, adoption does not always mean saying goodbye to your baby forever. It is increasingly common for birth parents to continue to contact the adoptive family after the adoption. Arrangements will vary depending on what both families are comfortable with. Talk to your adoptive family and caseworker about the different types of adoption to make sure you are on the same page.

Meanwhile, your mental health needs shouldn’t be ignored. The stress of being homeless and the depression that follows a birth are possibilities that may lead to the need for mental health services. Post-adoption grief is also possible because sometimes moms can feel lost after placing their child for adoption with another family. Adoption Choices of Missouri offers counseling, and many birth mothers reach out to online support groups through social media for additional help and information. Don’t let stigma hold you back from getting the help needed for your next steps.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help women of all kinds of situations. You are not alone, and there are many others facing the same things you are. Rather than giving in to the pressure of stigma, learn the truth about adoption and your other options. Helping mothers is our priority, and no one deserves to be judged for their situation. Our Adoption agencies in Missouri are more than happy to help with shelter, finances, medical care, and other needs, so don’t hesitate to call when you are ready.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Seannea Wharton is a student at Miami University majoring in English. As of now, she is working on her first novel, starting a book blog, and learning American Sign Language. She was raised in a suburban town in New Jersey and has various hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and crocheting. She enjoys learning about a wide range of topics and loves finding new books to read.

Why We Should Encourage Transracial Adoptions in MO

January 31, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Why We Should Encourage Transracial Adoptions in MO

Adoption and other options for unplanned pregnancy remain controversial. Some of the controversies are from misconceptions, but much of it stems from other societal issues. Racism has always been a problem in America, and much progress has been made towards a more fair society. Sadly, the effects of past injustices remain today. Further progress means that we have to look within ourselves to see how we are being unfair to others, and often, we don’t realize there might be ingrained biases we are unaware of. If you are reading this, chances are, you care about equality and want to know what you can do. Encouraging transracial adoptions is one thing all people who have been involved can do when they interact with others. The idea of fairness means we treat people the same regardless of their background, and adoption is no exception. We at Adoption Choices of Missouri, want to provide you with the best possible care in your MO adoption journey, here are five reasons to support transracial adoptions, and it’s important to think about how they apply to you.

Family Love Is What’s Important
As a birth mother, choosing an adoptive family is the most important decision you will make in the adoption process. Fairness means picking based on merit. The adoptive family may not share the same ethnic background, but that doesn’t stop them from being a good fit. What makes them good is their willingness to do what it takes to give a child a happy life. A good adoptive family will learn the culture your child comes from. Meanwhile, you should learn about their culture. In today’s society, this will be a challenge, but it is also rewarding. Both you and them will learn about another culture and become more open-minded.
You Will Realize Some Hard Truths
It’s hard to put ourselves in the shoes of those who have different experiences. We all heard stories of what people in other ethnic groups deal with, but being affected by it firsthand is the real awakening. If you regularly interact with the adoptive family, both of you might be shocked to meet judgemental people and how to navigate uncomfortable situations.As your child grows older, they may even have an identity crisis. Discussing these matters with the potential adoptive family is important and will get them started. Nothing will completely prepare them, but it must be noted that transracial adoptions are increasingly common. Your child is not alone, and neither will their new family. There are many who will oppose a transracial adoption for different reasons. One example is that they might think that the child is being moved from their cultural roots, not fit in, or never develop a sense of identity. The truth is, a child automatically just fits in regardless if the child is the same or of a different race than the adoptive family. Getting the child to feel like they belong takes work on the adoptive family’s part. Ethnic differences will make this more challenging but not impossible. The problem minorities continue to face is that not enough people try to understand them. Being raised by parents of a different background does not mean they will grow up with low self-esteem. It is also not fair for a child to be denied a family because of race.
The Bad Experiences Are Fueled By Misjudgement
Poor judgment is often the cause of the bad experiences adopted children face. Adopted parents often think the best way of helping the child fit in is to pretend there is no difference or to insist those differences don’t matter. The reality is that all of us are human. As an intelligent person, your child will notice they are different at some point and develop a curiosity. Denying a difference can cause the child to internalize negative attitudes towards themselves. Getting them to appreciate their cultural background is key to building their self-esteem and dealing with the way others may treat them. Ignoring differences does nothing to prepare the child and make things harder for them. Of course, there are many other things to discuss with the child’s potential new parents aside from cultural differences. The overall philosophy the new family will have is important, and so is their ability to take care of their needs.

How Adoption Choices of Missouri Helps Birth Mothers With Transracial Adoptions

Adoption Choices of Missouri helps moms of different backgrounds get informed so that they can find the right family for their child. There are many things to consider when giving a baby up for adoption and knowing what to expect is the first step. When you are ready, give us a call, and we will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. Helping moms is our mission and passion.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Why Adoption is An Option For an Unplanned Pregnancy in Missouri

January 14, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Why Adoption is An Option For an Unplanned Pregnancy in Missouri

As time goes on, life throws surprises at us, and unplanned pregnancies are among them. The difference between unplanned pregnancy and other unexpected events is that it involves a new human life. Parenting is the hardest thing anyone can do, and every expectant mother may not be at a point in their life where they are ready to do so. If that is the case for you, don’t feel alone because you are not the only one. There is a stigma among the options for an unplanned pregnancy, and adoption is no exception. The stigma is undeserved and scares people off from even considering adoption as an option. Stigma should not be a deciding factor in what you choose for your child. The most important thing is to give them the best life you can, whether you keep your child or place them for Adoption in MO.

The Unwarranted Stigma around the Adoption Process

Birth mothers are often portrayed as total messes needing to be cleaned up or desperate women trying to get her baby back. Choosing to give a baby up for adoption doesn’t mean you’ve fallen apart, and neither is it a choice of desperation. It is an emotional and hard choice, but it is done as an act of love to give a child a better life. Reasons for choosing adoption vary. Examples include:

Financial struggles.
Already having older children.
Finishing an education.
The desire to have the child raised in a two-parent household.

These birth mothers are not “giving up” on their child, but rather attempting to put them in a good family that can give what they can’t. No, the birth mother doesn’t run back later, demanding to get her child back because adoption is a legal process that terminates parental rights and gives them to adoptive parents. Additionally, birth parents often choose the adoptive family to know the new family is trustworthy.

When you tell your family you are considering adoption, you are likely going to get opposition. You are never going to please everyone, but communication is key to getting them to understand your position. Only you can know what’s best for your situation, so don’t let opposers hold you back.

Adoption is an Option that can Give Your Child a Better Life

Children obviously can’t raise themselves, so parents that love and care for them are what they need. If you are going through an unplanned pregnancy, it is possible your current situation is not favorable to raising a child. Some women may not want to parent. Or maybe you don’t have the resources to care for your child properly or may not be able to give them the attention they need. It is also possible that you don’t have a good support system.

Additionally, you will be giving someone the chance to have children who may otherwise not have been able to parent. In some cases, children may have special needs, and the birth parents may not afford the additional resources to do so well. Adoption isn’t the right choice for every unplanned pregnancy, so don’t rush your decision.

One of the hardest parts of adoption is parting ways with your child. This can cause feelings of loss in mothers, which is why adoption does not meet its media portrayals. Among these media portrayals are that the child does not know who their birth parents are as they grow up. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. In the past, all adoptions were closed. This meant that birth families and adoptive families had no contact after the adoption was finalized. Today, it is increasingly common for birth parents to continue communicating with their child. Of course, this will depend on the type of adoption you and the adoptive parents agree to. Because post-adoption agreements are not legally binding, it is important to make sure that you are on the same page. Talk to your caseworker to know what to consider when making arrangements with your adoptive family.

Adoption Choices of Missouri has helped moms in all kinds of situations. Don’t let adoption stigma stop you from making the best choice for your baby, whether it’s adoption or a different option. Our specialists will answer your questions and discuss your options when you are ready. There is no need to feel alone because you are not. Our adoption agencies in Missouri will be there to give you the support you need during this difficult time.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Holiday Traditions For an Open Adoption in MO

December 29, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Holiday Traditions For an Open Adoption in MO

It’s been another year, and the holidays are fast approaching. Naturally, the holidays are a time for family, and those who adopt or give their baby up for adoption are no exception. Once an adoption is finalized, the child is no longer under the care of their birth parents and, by extension, will spend the holidays with the adoptive family. In the case of open adoption, there is direct communication between adoptive and birth families, so holiday plans will likely include both. If you choose an open adoption, you may be concerned about giving and receiving gifts, visitation, vacations, traditions, and getting along with the extended adoptive family. These additional concerns may make the holiday season seem like an impossible challenge, but the reality is that even traditional families can have it rough during the holidays. Your experience may not be what most families deal with, but that doesn’t mean the holidays can’t still be fun and memorable. A good discussion among involved parties can often prove we might be overthinking our concerns.

Dealing with Conflicting Wishes

The adoptive family may want a small gathering with just their members. Other families may be accustomed to larger gatherings. Regardless of what they choose, those wishes should be respected. Talk to them and discuss your ideas. Be ready to compromise. It is not the end of the world if you don’t spend the exact holiday date with your child. You can still make arrangements before both families return to their normal routines. The best way to avoid conflicts is to discuss things ahead of time. In the end, nothing stops you from mailing a gift or a card. Many people stress over holiday plans, but the plans themselves mean less than the holiday’s purpose itself.

Sharing Traditions

Traditions should be introduced earlier rather than later. It’s natural for parents to want to pass down traditions to their children, especially since traditions hold precious memories. When two families come together, so do the traditions. These traditions for an open adoption include special dishes and things related to cultures. Many families make their own ornaments, so there is no harm in sending one to your child. Suppose your child’s adoptive family doesn’t celebrate the same holidays. In that case, that doesn’t stop you from showing you care. Exchanging life updates, video calling, and letters will still allow you to share experiences.

Additionally, if you are able to share the holiday with your child, talk to the adoptive family about what your child may enjoy. You do not want to put a lot of money or effort into a gift or tradition that your child won’t like. Traditions are done annually and should be enjoyable to both families. You do not have to pass down every tradition, just the most important ones.

You can also consider creating a tradition with your child and adoptive family. Brainstorm ideas with the adoptive family for what activities you want to do with the holiday. Creating a tradition can be memorable and helps build relationships between families. It will also make everyone excited for the holiday season. It is also important to be open-minded because the adoptive family may have different cultural traditions or may not celebrate the same holidays. Learning their culture and frame of mind also helps build family bonds. If they do not celebrate the same holidays, it will not spell death to an enjoyable season. Holidays are a time for family, and that remains the same regardless of religion. Once again, talk to the family instead of making assumptions. You don’t have to wait until a holiday to give a gift, and everyone can still pick a day to enjoy a nice family dinner.

The holiday season is looked forward to worldwide and can be a joy or stress depending on how it is managed. Navigating the season stress-free is all about focusing on what’s important rather than every little thing you feel you must do. Regardless of whether you exchange traditions or have new ones created, the value of memories remains, and everyone can still have a good time.

Adoption Choices of Missouri has specialist and post-placement services to help navigate the Missouri adoption process and adjust to life after adoption in MO. Please feel free to contact us if you have any concerns or are starting the process of adoption.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Placing A Baby for a MO Adoption While in Prison

December 10, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Placing A Baby for a MO Adoption While in Prison

Prison is the last place anyone wants to be when delivering a baby. The pressure of a sentence is hard enough, but societal factors still make things worse. Employment problems after being released are one of many worries. In the meantime, getting care for your baby can’t wait. The unique situation of the incarcerated mom always adds the factor of who will take care of the baby. MO adoption is an option for birth mothers who are not able to parent for one reason or another and are considering adoption. Because your freedom is restricted in jail, there may be additional obstacles to a smooth process, but it is not impossible. Giving your child the best life is well worth the stress of it all. Once your different factors are demystified, your next steps should be more clear.

Is Adoption The Right Choice?

Deciding whether adoption in MO is the best option is hard enough, but being in jail complicates things further. Laws on what happens to children of adoption vary from state to state, and children who are not placed with family are often put into foster care. In many cases, the children can be adopted without parental consent if they are in the foster care system after a certain length of time. To know your options, it is best to talk to your caseworker or legal advisor. The length of your sentence should be considered when choosing adoption. The caseworker will answer any questions you have and will give you the information you need. Adoption Choices of Missouri offers legal help to birth mothers.

Choosing an Adoptive Family for My Baby

Chances are, you probably want to pick the family that adopts your child. It is a common choice for pregnant inmates to entrust their child to a trusted family member, but it is not possible in some cases. Being in prison does not stop you from choosing an adoptive family. Our adoption agency will send profiles once you discuss your preferences with your caseworker and adoption specialist. How you will interact with the potential adoptive family will depend on prison regulations. You may send and receive letters, phone calls, and possibly visits to get to know the adoptive family. It is also possible to give your child to your baby’s birth father if he wants to be involved in your child’s life.

Finalizing The MO Adoption Process

After you’ve chosen the family, you will have to think about your delivery options and how much contact you want to have with the adoptive family afterward. Limitations imposed by the prison will likely mean the MO adoption will be semi-open if communication is desired. You will receive letters, photos, and other updates from the adoptive family with the adoption agency as a mediator. Semi-open adoption leaves the door open for further contact later when your circumstances change.

Delivery options in jail are more restrictive to prison moms. In many cases, only the doctor and the correctional officers are present. With the skyrocketing numbers of women going to jail, more parents have these types of concerns. Some prisons have nurseries that allow incarcerated parents to raise their children for a period of time before the child goes elsewhere. Unfortunately, these nurseries are few and far between, so check with your caseworker. Adoption is free to all birth mothers, whether incarcerated or not. You are still entitled to prenatal care during your sentence, and the prison can not withhold that from you. For the delivery, you will be transported to the nearest hospital. The basic steps for adoption are still the same even when the birth mom is imprisoned. Above all else, make sure adoption is the best option for you first. Your parietal rights are terminated once the adoption process is complete and the adoptive parents become the legal guardians. Your caseworker will walk you through the process as you look into your options.

Adoption Choices of Missouri helps women of all situations navigate the MO adoption process. Prison is hard enough, and a coming baby makes things more complicated, but there’s still hope. Remember that you are not giving up on your child if you choose adoption. The goal of MO adoption is to give your child the best future they can have to be happy. Our adoption agency in Missouri offers legal help and other resources to help mothers. We will be more than happy to help and provide you with more information when you are ready.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

What is a Semi-Open Adoption and How can Adoption Agencies in Missouri Help?

November 23, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What is a Semi-Open Adoption and How can Adoption Agencies in Missouri Help?

Your upcoming adoption has made you learn a lot of information you never knew with questions about every step. In a sea of information, it is easy to get confused about what is what or you may become overwhelmed with all the options. At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we understand that the most important choices you make will be who you choose to adopt your child and how you will interact with the adoptive family you choose. There is no one size fits all solution, and no one else can tell you what’s best for you.

At the same time, the earlier you understand your options, the more time you will have to think over your decision. While you research the adoption process in Missouri or your home state, it is likely that you’ve heard something about the three types of adoption. The first and most well-known type is a closed adoption. Traditionally, all adoptions used to be closed, and children would grow up not knowing who their biological parents were. The increasingly common open adoption allows interactions between birth parents and adoptive families, so their relationships remain continuous. The semi-open adoption falls in between the two options. Birth mothers have natural concerns about the welfare of their children after the adoptions are finalized, and updates can help them feel confident they made the right choice. Deciding what is right should be taken on a case-by-case basis depending on the needs of both families.

How Do Semi-Open Adoptions Work?

The level of communication you want to have after should be carefully considered. If you want to have communication with your child after their adoption, you need to make sure you and the new family are on the same page. If your baby’s birth father is around, his needs should be considered as well. Times may already be hard, but a family that misunderstands or doesn’t respect your wishes is not a good addition to the mix. In Missouri, post-adoption agreements are not legally binding, so enforcement is up to the court’s discretion. However, keep in mind that through a semi-open adoption, communication is mediated through our adoption agencies in Missouri.

As mentioned above, semi-open adoptions are a combination of closed and open adoptions. Open adoption enables direct interaction between both families. In the semi-open adoption, all interactions are mediated between the adoption agency. Information about you will be given based on your level of consent, and updates on both ends will be delivered through the adoption agency. When making a decision on semi-open adoption, it should be considered how long you want the updates to continue and how often. Also, consider the types of information and level of detail. Are pictures enough? Letters? How often do you want to be updated? All these things should be considered when choosing a semi-open adoption as a birth mother can negotiate all of this with the adoptive parents before the adoption is finalized.

Semi-open adoptions minimize the amount of information shared between birth and adoptive families to ensure privacy. Semi-open adoption has the advantage of leaving the door open for you to have further communication later. Closed adoption may feel too extreme in terms of distancing, and for some, open adoption may be too much to handle on both sides. There are multiple benefits of a semi-open adoption, especially when you are unsure if you want to leave a door open just in case. Many adopted children wonder who their biological parents are, and having some knowledge of where they came from may give them some satisfaction. It also might ease some of the post-placement feelings of loss birth mothers may feel. Adoption is a big decision, and it brings some relief to know that your baby is doing fine. It might ease the nerves of your confused family members, who may not understand why you chose adoption in MO in the first place.

What to Do When You Are Ready For Adoption in MO

As family and friends learn about your adoption, they too might have questions about the three types of adoption. They may have their own opinions about what to pick or why you still want communication with a child you gave to another family. Whatever your home situation is, don’t let someone pressure you into something you are not comfortable with. The whole adoption process is hard, and many people won’t understand. Your adoption specialist will help inform all involved parties to better explain why you are making these decisions.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is happy to help at every step of the adoption process. If you have any questions, our private Missouri adoption agency will answer them, so you can feel confident about your choice. Our adoption agency serves moms across the state, and we understand each family has different needs. Don’t hesitate to call when you are ready to learn more or start the adoption process.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Giving Baby up For Adoption Post Pandemic

November 3, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Giving Baby up For Adoption Post Pandemic

Since the start of the pandemic, our world has changed a lot. Perhaps there have been changes in your job, heavier reliance on zoom and virtual meetings, and disruptions to your seasonal plans? All throughout these months, the thing that hasn’t changed is the birth of children. The need to accommodate them in a comfortable home will always be there, and so will the love parents have for their children. Some parents choose to place their baby for adoption to give their child a better chance at life. If you are among these parents, no doubt you are concerned about how the pandemic will affect your adoption plans. Pandemic restrictions have been lifted in many places, but we must remain concerned about safety, especially that of children. The pandemic may have put a damper on your life, but adoption is still possible in Missouri.

Meeting Your Child’s Adoptive Parents

Whether you are pregnant or already or had your baby, choosing your child’s adoptive parents remains part of the process. In-person meetings were the norm of the past, but many meetings have been through video calls or text for social distancing measures. As pandemic restrictions lift, in-person meetings may resume according to the needs of birth and adoptive parents. Laws, differing views on vaccination, and other pandemic measures may influence choices when interacting with potential parents. Missouri does not have statewide travel restrictions, but restrictions may differ if your child’s prospective adoptive family is in another state. Hospitals themselves might impose restrictions on visitors and who can be present during the birth. This can delay when the adoptive parents get to see their child. What’s most important is finding what works for everyone. Remember to check in with your adoption agency for their policies, as things may have changed.

If you’ve already delivered your baby during the pandemic, it is possible that stress is making you feel antsy for options. Indeed, options to streamline adoptions have appeared since there have been various delays, especially international adoptions. It might be tempting to hop on that next exciting opportunity, but rushing will not do your child justice. The increased use of social media to find adoptive parents is on the rise, but it is not without consequences.

The internet comes with many benefits, but there are people out there who will exploit it. Prospective adoptive parents have turned to social media to find birth mothers willing to place their babies for adoption in MO. Such people are not ill-intentioned by default, but there are a handful of scams. In worst-case scenarios, there is a possibility of human trafficking. Those offering services online may not give the proper disclosure on the process.

The internet’s advantages do not replace the good of old school methods. Using an adoption agency is better for a number of reasons, but social media can supplement what your adoption agency provides. Legal help, financial assistance, and counseling are among the services Adoption Choices of Missouri provides, but it doesn’t hurt to reach out to online support groups, especially if there are none in your area. Another advantage is that an adoption agency will perform background checks and screenings, so you can be sure your child is in good hands. Some parents decide to connect with their child’s future adoptive parents over social media to help get to know them more, especially with the reduction of in-person meetings during this pandemic.

Pandemic Adoption Process

The adoption process has the same procedures as prior to the pandemic. As of now, you are probably considering the type of adoption that will suit you. Traditionally, adoptions were closed, and children did not have interaction with their biological parents. Today, open adoptions, which allow birth parents and children to stay in touch, are more common. Suppose you choose open adoption and your child is already born. In that case, it is possible that pandemic safety measures may affect how you interact with your baby after the adoption, especially if the prospective family is in another state. Make sure you and they are on the same page in how you will continue communication. Remember that the pandemic will not last forever, so things will go back to in-person interactions eventually.

Your adoption specialist will be ready to answer any questions you have on how to navigate this pandemic. Whether it’s financing, social distancing measures, or anything else, they will be there to support. Adoption Choices of Missouri is still operating this pandemic and strives to keep all parties safe. Don’t be shy to give me a call when you are ready.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Questions Birth Mothers Might Have About the Adoption Process in Missouri

September 24, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Questions Birth Mothers Might Have About the Adoption Process in Missouri

When making big choices when you are considering adoption, questions are inevitable and important to be answered. Your adoption is no exception and the biggest decision of your life. Those who aid you through the adoption process are vital to your experience, and this includes the adoption agency you choose. Different adoption agencies vary in what they offer and knowing the right questions will help you rule out who you want to help with your Missouri adoption plan. The list below can’t cover everything, but writing them down might jog your ideas. Here at Adoption Choices of Missouri, we want to make sure all your questions are being taken care of. Here are some questions birth mothers might have about the adoption process in Missouri.

Your Adoption Agency’s Support

Support is important for every birth mother. All adoption agencies will give some support, but they offer different services. Each birth mother’s needs are different, so there’s not going to be any list that will be a perfect roadmap. The list below will give a few examples, so you can think of what to ask.

Does Your Agency Support Open Adoption? Traditionally, adoptions were closed, but open adoption is becoming more common. Open adoption means communication between the birth mother, adoptive parents, and the baby continues after the adoption is finalized. Such arrangements vary but having an agency that supports it makes it easier to make the communication needs of your case.
What Support Does Your Agency Offer? Aside from making an adoption plan, you will likely need additional help. These areas include finances, emotional support, legal assistance, and more. It is important to ask about the costs of any offered services. Your adoption agency should be upfront about any fees. For financial support, your adoption specialist will make an assessment, so you can get help for certain expenses. Birth mothers should also ask agencies about counseling services after the adoption is finalized. Ask for specifics because some agencies give more help than others. You should also learn the qualifications of the counselors.
Communication: How well your adoption agency communicates with you is needed for a good connection between you and the adoptive family. This includes how long it takes to hear a response, hours of availability, how often you will be contacted, preferred means of communication, and how to get them in case of an emergency.
How Do You Screen Adoptive Families? The screening process will vary from agency to agency, and so will the home study procedures required of adoptive families. You should also ask whether you or they will choose the adoptive family.

Additional Questions You Might Have About the Adoption Process

Is there a person on staff from the Department of Social Services?
Do you allow birth parents to access profiles on adoptive families?
What are the restrictions for who can adopt?
What are the state’s adoption requirements?
What is your failed connection rate?
How often do you place children with LGBTQ+ parents, single parents, and couples with biological kids?
What languages do you provide services in?
What are your placement demographics?
What happens if I change my mind?

Watch Out For Adoption Scams

Adoption is an emotional process, but some people will exploit it anyway. People in all parts of the Missouri adoption process are potential targets, and birth moms are no exception. A failed placement doesn’t mean fraud has taken place, but there are red flags to watch out for, such as:

Adoption professionals who can’t provide information.
Inability to verify the agency or professional. Find out the agency’s license number, address, phone number, legal business name, and city business license.
A professional who’s offended by your questions
Bad reports from the Better Business Bureau
Pressuring you to sign documents you don’t understand
Inconsistent communication
A representative reaches out to you first. Legit agencies will not approach you before you approach them.

Overall, the most important thing is to listen to your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is wrong. Although this list applies to adoption agencies, potential adoptive parents can be fraudulent as well. If your child’s adoptive parents are not upfront with you, this is definitely a red flag. Also, look out for:

Parents who change their mind about how much contact they want you to have after the birth.
Making demands instead of asking
Not returning messages
Seeming desperate
Trying to convince you to break the law or take illegal payments or gifts

Adoption Choices of Missouri Helping Answer Questions Birth Mothers Might Have

Of course, there are other questions and concerns to be considered. It may help to talk to your family about your concerns or reach out to other moms who put their baby up for adoption. Adoption is a hard choice requiring a lot of careful thought, and only you can know what’s best for you and your family. Adoption Choices of Missouri serves expectant mothers at no cost and is ready to help when you are ready.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Birth Father Birth Mother Blog

5 Tips For A Healthy Pregnancy Before Adoption in MO

September 15, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

5 Tips For A Healthy Pregnancy Before Adoption in MO

Regardless of your choice if you are pregnant considering adoption or if you choose to parent your child, the need to live a healthy lifestyle remains the same. Pregnancy not only changes your body but also takes a lot of its resources. Through hormonal changes, fatigue, and other symptoms, getting used to changing your life is challenging enough, and maintaining healthy eating habits can get tough. Your doctor may have already prescribed a prenatal supplement, but this does not replace healthy food. There may also be foods that you previously loved that you must now forgo or cut back on. The change, though, is not impossible. We at Adoption Choices of Missouri want to help you keep a healthy lifestyle for your health and the health of your unborn child. Below are five tips for a healthy pregnancy before adoption in MO.

Go To All Of Your Medical Appointments And Keep The Adoptive Parents Informed

Neglecting your appointments is far too easy to do, but checking in should be one of your top priorities. You might have some anxieties, and having a doctor to answer those questions and see if everything’s going smooth will ease the nerves. They will also inform you of any complications and let you know your options. Your child’s adoptive family should also be in the know of what’s going on, so they can adapt.

Exercise and Move Your Body Throughout your Pregnancy

Exercise is often praised for weight loss benefits, but there are many other ways it can help you too. Even light-intensity exercises such as walking a few times a week can help. Although heavy lifting is not recommended for pregnant women, moderate exercise is safe. Exercise helps with stress, blood circulation, energy, sleep, strengthening muscles, and more. Talk to your doctor about your exercise routine to see what he or she recommends. Contact your healthcare provider for more information.

Eliminate Unwanted Toxins During Your Pregnancy

You can’t avoid every toxin, but cutting it down will reduce the risks of birth defects and other problems for your baby as he or she grows. Environmental toxins can be made or natural. Many of the ways you can cut down on toxins are easy and will give your baby the best chance at health. Three things you can do to avoid toxins include:

Avoid BPAs: BPA stands for bisphenol-A. It’s used in resins and polymers, but unfortunately, disrupts hormones that already fluctuate during pregnancy. You can reduce your exposure to BPAs by swapping plastic water bottles and containers for glass, avoiding canned soup, and using gloves when handling a lot of paper receipts. Occasionally, touching a receipt is harmless, but if you work as a cashier or perform another job with a lot of them, BPAs are permeable through the skin.
Avoid phthalates: Phthalates are in plastics like BPAs, but they are also in beauty products such as lotion and nail polishes and fragrance products like candles and perfumes. They disrupt hormones and the endocrine system. Replace scented products with essential oils and buy phthalate-free products.
Avoid PFCs: PFC means perfluorinated chemicals, which you will get most of your exposure from non-stick cookware. These chemicals can limit the growth of your baby and affect brain and organ development. Cast iron and glass cookware are safe alternatives. Beware of lead if you use ceramic.

Avoid Certain Foods Through Your Adoption Journey

Your physician has already advised eating a balanced diet. Chances are, you were already briefed on the dangers of alcohol and smoking during pregnancy. In today’s environment, though, there are other things you will have to consider reducing your intake of due to toxins. These things include:

Fish with higher levels of mercury: this includes tuna, King mackerel, marlin, swordfish, Orange roughy, shark, and tilefish.
Raw or undercooked eggs, seafood, meat, and poultry: You are at increased risk of bacterial food poisoning. Use a thermometer to make sure your foods are cooked to the right temperature, and cook eggs until both whites and yolks are firm.
Unpasteurized milk or juice.
Excess caffeine

Take Care and Eat A Balanced Diet to Maintain a Healthy Pregnancy Before Adoption in MO

Eating healthy is a challenge for a lot of people, but remember to do the same while pregnant comes with myths. Your nutrition needs will go up, but your calorie needs won’t increase much. A well-balanced diet includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, calcium, and other vitamins and minerals. Consult with your doctor for your calorie needs throughout your pregnancy.

Prenatal vitamins are made to help fill in any gaps, but there is no substitute for a good diet. Folic acid, a B vitamin, is important and has lower the risk of a neural tube defect in babies such as spina bifida. Choline also helps prevent birth defects in the brain and spine. However, it is often not included in prenatal supplements, so talk to your doctor about choline supplements.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves women facing unplanned pregnancies serving over 100 women annually. Our counselors give support and help and are committed to supporting the women we serve regardless of the choice they make.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800