3 Adoption Options for an Unplanned Pregnancy in Louisiana

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When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, knowing which path to take can be difficult. If you are considering placing your baby for adoption, St. Elizabeth Foundation can provide guidance and care as you come to your decision. Explore the three adoption options in Louisiana available through our agency—open, semi-open, and closed adoptions. We ensure you have the resources you need to find which type of adoption is the right choice for you.

Option 1: Stay In Close Contact With Your Baby

There are many reasons why a mother may choose to place her baby for adoption. These can include financial difficulties, personal challenges, or the desire to provide her baby with better opportunities. If she chooses adoption but wants to maintain a close relationship with her baby, she may choose an open adoption. 

A birth mother starts by reviewing profiles of potential adoptive families. Then, she can choose the one she feels will be the best fit for her child. This is a great way to get to know more about the family. Once her baby is placed, she can stay in contact and build a relationship with her baby and the adoptive family. This type of adoption can be especially beneficial for the baby, too. 

A birth mother may have regular in-person visits with her baby. She can also stay in touch through email or letter exchanges, and sharing updates and photos. While our staff can still help mediate communication, the birth mother and the adoptive family can initiate this directly.

Option 2: Limit Communication and Interactions 

Are there adoption options in Louisiana for mothers to stay in touch with their babies while still maintaining a sense of privacy? Yes! Our staff can mediate a semi-open adoption. 

A birth mother can stay connected by sending letters, photos, and emails or during in-person visits. She has the power to set personal boundaries while still having the opportunity to build a relationship with her baby.

During the placement process, a birth mother will view profiles of adoptive families. Then, she may communicate with them directly through emails or visits to learn more about them. Once she chooses the adoptive family, our staff will take care of the placement and mediate semi-open contact.

Option 3: Maintain Full Confidentiality

In some cases, a mother may not wish to stay in touch once the process is complete. One of the adoption options that we can facilitate in Louisiana is a closed adoption. 

Like open and semi-open adoptions, a birth mother has full control over the decisions for her adoption process. She will determine her birth plan and choose the family she deems fit to match with her baby. But unlike our other types of adoption, closed adoptions maintain full privacy for the birth mother.

We will not share her name, picture, or other identifying information with the adopting parents. She can rest assured that she will stay confidential throughout the entire process.

A member of the St. Elizabeth staff will be present for the birth of the baby and mediate the placement with the adoptive family. Once the baby is placed, there is no communication between the birth mother and her baby or the adoptive family.

Discover Your Adoption Options in Louisiana Through St. Elizabeth Foundation

You don’t have to search for potential adoption options in Louisiana alone! Birth mothers can receive support and guidance from the caring staff at St. Elizabeth Foundation. We provide counseling services, placement options, financial assistance, and a shoulder to lean on. Let us help you throughout your adoption journey. You can reach out to us at 225-769-8888. You can also send us a message to learn how we can help. 

When you choose adoption, we empower you with the knowledge of all options available to you in Louisiana. Get in touch with us today to find the best plan for you and your baby.

Choosing the Right Adoption Agency Near Lafayette: What to Look For

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St. Elizabeth Foundation is a haven for birth mothers and adoptive parents alike. Are you a birth mother searching for placement for an unplanned pregnancy? Or are you a married couple who wants to expand your family through adoption? You want to find an adoption agency that you can trust to help meet your needs with kindness and compassion. But when you are searching for an agency to help with your placement or adoption journey, how do you make the right decision? For mothers or adopting couples researching adoption agencies near Lafayette, these tips can help you find the right agency for you.

For Birth Mothers

Placing your baby for adoption can be an emotionally-charged process. You want to ensure that an agency will respect your wishes and offer the right solutions for you and your baby. If you are searching for an adoption agency near Lafayette for your placement, these questions can help during your search.

Research the Type of Adoption You Want to Have

After placing your baby for adoption, how much contact do you want to maintain with your baby, if any at all? This question can help you determine the right type of adoption for your placement. Through St. Elizabeth Foundation, birth mothers can choose from three types of adoption:

  • Open Adoption: Birth mothers maintain ongoing communication with the adoptive family.
  • Semi-Open Adoption: Birth mothers maintain some level of contact with the adoptive family.
  • Closed Adoption: There is no direct communication between the birth mother and adoptive family. The birth mother’s identity is kept confidential.

Coming to the right conclusion for your adoption can feel overwhelming. Our professional adoption counselors help you understand each type of adoption. We are dedicated to alleviating your stress and helping you make the most informed decision.

Discuss What Support the Agency Can Offer You

Adoption agencies often offer birth mothers a wide range of support during the adoption process. Ask what options are available for you when consulting with an agency. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we help birth mothers as much as possible throughout their placement. We provide pre-placement counseling services to help mothers understand their adoption options and to develop their birth plans. We can also offer financial assistance to help with costs such as housing, transportation, and living expenses. And after their adoption is complete, we remain present for ongoing support, including post-placement counseling.

For Adopting Couples

Welcoming a baby into your home through adoption can be a joyous occasion. But finding a trustworthy agency to facilitate your adoption requires research. Here are a few pointers to help you start your adoption process. 

Ask Questions!

Adopting parents should come prepared with a list of questions when speaking with adoption agencies. This can help you learn more about the agency and set expectations for your adoption journey. Keep these questions in mind:

  • How does the agency screen adoptive families? What are their requirements for prospective adoptive parents?
  • What is the cost of the adoption process, and what services are included in the fee? Are there additional expenses that adopting couples should be aware of?
  • What is the success rate of the agency’s adoptions? How many adoptions have they facilitated?
  • Can the agency provide references from other adoptive families who have used their services?
  • What support does the agency provide pre- and post-adoption, such as counseling and support groups?

No matter your questions, St. Elizabeth Foundation is ready to help you find the answers you need to move forward with confidence. 

Read Reviews & Testimonials

Reviews and testimonials from other adoptive families can be valuable resources for prospective adopting couples. They can give a sense of an agency’s reputation, including their professionalism, ethical standards, and overall track record. You can also learn the level of emotional support and guidance that the agency can provide. 

It’s important to investigate the satisfaction of families who have used the agency’s services during and after the placement. These personal stories can help a couple determine if the agency in question is the right choice for their adoption.

For an Adoption Agency Near Lafayette, Reach Out Today

If you are searching for an adoption agency near Lafayette, reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation. Our Baton Rouge adoption agency works with birth mothers and adopting families in Louisiana and nationwide. During every step of the process, we make sure that the voice of the birth mother is heard and valued. We specialize in all forms of adoption and help mothers determine the right path for their placement. Then, we work with adopting families to develop adoption-ready homes and build successful placements.

Do you have questions about our agency, placing a baby for adoption, or how to begin the adoption process? We would love to speak with you. Send us a message online or give us a call at 225-769-8888. For more than 30 years, we have been a respected authority on adoption in Louisiana. Let us deliver care and support that you can trust.

Adoption Vs. Fostering: What You Should Know

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Deciding to open your home and your heart to a child can be an exciting, life-changing experience. Are considering adoption through our agency near Lake Charles or fostering a child? There is much that should be taken into consideration. Start by exploring the differences between adoption and fostering so you can decide which option is best for your family.

Why Might Families Choose Adoption?

Adopting a child means that you will legally and permanently become the parent of a child who is not biologically related to you. Adoption involves a legal process in which the rights and responsibilities of the birth parents are transferred to the adoptive parents. Once the adoption is finalized, the adoptive parents will have the same rights and responsibilities as the birth parents. And, the adopted child will become a full member of the adoptive family.

There are many reasons why families might choose adoption. Some couples may be unable to have children biologically and choose adoption as a way to build their family. Many families choose adoption because they want to provide a loving, stable home for a child. Other families may have personal or family experience with adoption and feel a strong desire to adopt for themselves. Ultimately, the decision to adopt is a very personal one. And it is influenced by a variety of factors, including an individual or couple’s personal circumstances, values, and goals.

What Does It Mean To Foster a Child?

Choosing to foster a child means a family provides temporary care for a child who is not able to live with their birth parents. Foster parents are responsible for providing a safe and nurturing environment. During this time together, they meet their foster child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs. 

Foster care can be a short-term or long-term arrangement. This depends on the needs of the child and the availability of a permanent placement. The goal of foster care is to reunite the child with their biological parents. Or, it is to find a permanent home for the child, either through adoption or guardianship.

Some common challenges that foster parents may face include:

  • Emotional challenges. Caring for a child who has experienced trauma or who has behavioral issues can be emotionally draining. Plus, it can also be difficult to say goodbye to a child when they leave your care to return to their biological family or to be placed with a new adoptive family.
  • Practical challenges. Foster parents may need to make significant changes to their home and schedule to accommodate a child. This can be challenging, especially if the foster parent is working or has other commitments.
  • Financial challenges. Foster parents may need to cover some expenses related to caring for the child, such as clothing, food, and transportation. And these costs can be significant, especially for long-term foster placements.
  • Legal challenges. Foster parents may need to navigate complex legal procedures and requirements. These may be necessary to become licensed foster parents and to advocate for the best interests of the child.
  • Social challenges. Foster parents may face stigma or misunderstanding from friends, family, or members of the community. This often is rooted in a lack of awareness of the realities of foster care.

Despite these challenges, many people find fostering a child to be a deeply rewarding experience.

Helpful Questions to Consider When Making Your Decision

If you are trying to decide between fostering and adoption near Lake Charles, ask yourself these questions:

1. What Are Your Goals? 

Do you want to provide temporary care for a child while they are unable to live with their biological parents? Or are you looking to permanently become a parent to a child?

2. What Are Your Resources and Support Systems? 

Fostering and adoption can be emotionally and financially demanding. Do you have the resources and support systems in place to meet the needs of a child?

3. What Are Your Expectations? 

Do you have a clear understanding of the challenges and rewards of fostering and adoption, and do you have realistic expectations about what to expect?

4. What Are Your Long-Term Plans? 

If you are considering foster care, do you have a plan in place for how you will handle the possibility of a child returning to their biological family or being placed with a new adoptive family? And if you are considering adoption, do you understand the legal implications and requirements of the adoption process?

5. How Will This Decision Impact Your Family? 

Fostering or adopting a child will likely have a significant impact on your family. Have you discussed this decision with your family members, and do you have their support?

Let these questions help guide you as you make your decision. And if you have more questions about the process of adoption near Lake Charles, don’t hesitate to reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation for more information.

How to Begin Your Adoption Journey Through St. Elizabeth Foundation

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we help adopting families connect with birth mothers through open, closed, or semi-open adoption. Qualified couples must apply to adopt. Then, we begin a home study and education process to help them prepare to open their home to a new baby. Our agency treats all birth mothers and adopting families like our own family. And as an additional benefit, we offer support and counseling before, during, and after your adoption is complete.

If you have questions about our agency or are ready to start your adoption process, the first step is to reach out! Call 225-769-8888 or send us a message to speak with a helpful member of our team. We would be happy to share more about our agency and how you can begin your life-changing journey to adoption.

Is a Closed Adoption Agency the Right Choice for Me?

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There are many important decisions to make when placing a baby for adoption, and one of the first is to determine the openness of your adoption. Should you partner with a closed adoption agency or one that offers open adoptions as well? While closed adoptions were once the only option, there are many more choices available to expectant mothers today. How do you know if a closed adoption agency is the right choice for you? Know the advantages and disadvantages of closed adoption agencies so that you can make the best decision for your unique situation. 

The Pros & Cons of a Closed Adoption Agency

Choosing a confidential adoption or working with a closed adoption agency allows birth mothers to maintain their privacy throughout the entire adoption process. The identities of the birth mother and adoptive family are not disclosed to each other. Mothers can determine the birth and adoption plan that is best for them. Once the adoption is complete, they will not maintain contact with their baby or the adoptive family. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we communicate all details to the involved parties while upholding the birth mother’s wishes for confidentiality.

While closed adoptions may be the right choice for some birth mothers, they can be emotionally challenging. Some mothers struggle with feelings of loss and grief after placing a baby for adoption. They may also feel a sense of guilt or remorse about their decision to close off contact with their child, which can be difficult to cope with. While not all mothers experience these emotional challenges, our team at St. Elizabeth Foundation provides counseling to discuss the potential difficulties of closed adoption.

Before settling on a closed adoption, it is important to know all options available to make the most informed decision. In addition to closed adoption, birth mothers have two other adoption channels that they may pursue.

Semi-Open Adoption

Semi-open adoption, also known as mediated adoption, involves some level of communication between the birth mother and the adoptive family. However, this is not to the same extent as in an open adoption. In a semi-open adoption, birth mothers have the option of whether or not to disclose their identity to the adoptive family. All communication is facilitated through a third party, such as an adoption agency or an attorney.

In a semi-open adoption, the birth mother and adoptive family may exchange identifying or non-identifying information. This can include letters and photos sent through the third party. They may also have the opportunity to meet in person, typically with the third party present.

Semi-open adoption can offer some of the benefits of both open and closed adoption. It allows the birth mother and adoptive family to maintain some level of privacy and confidentiality, while also allowing for some limited post-adoption communication. This can be a good option for mothers who want some contact with their baby and the adoptive family but who do not want a fully open adoption.

Open Adoption

Open adoptions maintain some level of ongoing contact and communication between the birth mother and adoptive family. In an open adoption, the birth mother and adoptive family exchange their names and contact information. They may also maintain ongoing contact through phone calls, emails, letters, and in-person visits.

Open adoptions can take many forms, and the level of contact and communication can vary widely. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we help birth mothers settle on and facilitate the open adoption arrangement they deem best.

Open adoption can offer many benefits, including the opportunity for the baby to learn more about their birth family and their family history. This also allows the mother to stay connected with her child and be involved in their life to some extent. It can also help to foster a sense of openness and transparency in the adoption process. While open adoptions come with their own challenges, our adoption experts help to navigate all ups and downs through counseling and personalized care.

Partner With an Agency That Understands All Forms of Adoption

Are you unsure if a closed adoption agency or open adoption agency is right for you? At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we specialize in open, closed, and semi-open adoptions. We empower all birth mothers to find the adoption plan that is right for them and their babies. Let us connect you with adopting families while maintaining your specified level of openness.

If you are searching for the right agency to help facilitate your adoption, St. Elizabeth Foundation would love to share more with you about our adoption process. Give us a call at 225-769-8888 or send us a message. We would love to help you find the adoption plan that meets your needs.

8 Helpful Tips for Parents Looking to Adopt

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Finalizing your adoption and bringing home your new baby is a beautiful, exciting process! Whether you are first-time parents or already have children, this experience can come with adventures as well as challenges. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are dedicated to guiding you through your adoption and helping you settle after your placement. Here are eight tips for parents looking to adopt that may help you during and after adoption near Lake Charles.

1. Have Patience With the Process

The adoption process can take time. Once you have applied for adoption, you will need to work through counseling, a home study, and pre-placement education. In some cases, this process can take six months to over a year to complete. Be patient during this process! The wait is worth the outcome. And, this can be the perfect time to reach out to your support system, decorate your baby’s room, and prepare yourself emotionally for their arrival. 

2. Find Your Support System

Parents looking to adopt near Lake Charles should make sure to have an encouraging support system in place. These friends, family members, employers, and counselors will be the ones you lean on most as you navigate the ups and downs of the adoption process. 

This system may be responsible for childcare or meal delivery when the time comes to bring your baby home. Discussing the details with an employer can also help to alleviate stress when it comes to taking time off work as your baby adjusts to their new home. And never forget the value of speaking with a counselor throughout your entire journey. They can guide you through the process of choosing adoption, undergoing a home study, and becoming parents to a new baby.

3. Learn From Other Adopting Families

The stories of adoptive parents are invaluable resources for you during your adoption journey. Learning from their challenges can help you prepare for tough days in your own process. And seeing their success and joy can encourage you as you prepare to bring your baby home. The bonds and friendships formed with others who are empathetic to your journey may last even after your adoption process is complete.

4. Prepare for Your Baby in Advance

Besides having your nursery set up for your baby’s arrival, make sure to have other important details in place before the baby is born. This includes preparing freezer meals for your family or arranging meal deliveries from friends and loved ones. And don’t forget to arrange childcare for your children, if needed. 

Parents looking to adopt should consider contacting local medical insurance and pediatric clinics in Lake Charles at least two weeks before the baby’s birth. If possible, set up your first medical visits in advance. With these details squared away, you can focus wholeheartedly on welcoming your baby into your home when the time comes.

5. Be Ready for an Adjustment Period

Bringing your baby into your home is a beautiful experience. But remember that you, your family, and your baby must all work through this adjustment together! With a new baby, you will have to become accustomed to their sleeping and feeding schedule. If you already have children, it may also take time for them to get used to having a new sibling in the house. Treat this adjustment period with care, and ask for help when you need it.

6. Be Ready to Develop a Relationship With Your Baby’s Birth Mother

If you complete an open adoption, this means that you will have organized calls, messages, or meetups with your baby’s birth mother or parents. Stay flexible during this process. Developing a healthy and open relationship requires care, patience, and openness. Do your best to maintain consistent communication and extend encouragement and support to your baby’s mother in the process. Your team at St. Elizabeth Foundation is also here to help as you navigate your open adoption!

7. Bond With Your Baby

One of the first and most important steps after bringing your baby home is to establish bonding time. Essential bonding practices include touch, eye contact, and speaking softly to your baby. During these interactions, your baby will become accustomed to your touch, the sound of your voice, and your facial expressions. Feeding, bathtime, and other tender acts of infant care help your baby feel safe, secure, and loved. And this extra time to love on your baby is equally wonderful for the parents.

8. Be Gentle With Yourself

It is easy for parents looking to adopt to forget how much stress, change, and emotional stimulation they can go through during the adoption process. Even with the support of your spouse, you can still both become tired and stressed as you adjust to living with a new baby. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself, too. Without essential personal care, you won’t be able to give your baby the love and care they need. Reach out to a friend or family member to take care of your baby while you take time to bathe, rest, or unwind.

Parents Looking to Adopt Near Lake Charles Can Begin Their Adoption Journey With St. Elizabeth Foundation

St. Elizabeth Foundation has worked with countless parents to help them begin their adoption journey. Parents looking to adopt who have questions about our process or who are ready to submit their application can reach out to us! Call 225-769-8888 or send us a message. Our helpful team can step through the requirements for qualification, counseling, and what must be completed on your road to adoption. We look forward to supporting you through all stages: before, during, and after adoption.

Open Vs. Closed Adoption Agency: What’s the Difference?

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If you are a birth mother deciding on your adoption plan, you have many choices available to you. One of these important decisions determines how much contact to keep with your baby after adoption, if any at all. Which should you choose: an open or closed adoption agency? While this is a big decision, don’t let it overwhelm you! Learn how St. Elizabeth Foundation can help facilitate your adoption process and help you better understand the differences between open and closed adoptions.

How an Open and Closed Adoption Agency Differ

The major difference between an open and closed adoption agency is how private the adoption process is. Mothers who opt for a closed adoption remain fully confidential. They do not meet their baby’s adoptive family or maintain contact during or after adoption. In an open or even semi-open adoption, the birth mother maintains communication with her baby and the birth family after placement.

Depending on the circumstances of the adoption, a closed adoption may be a safe choice for your baby. After the adoption is completed, a closed adoption agency ensures that the baby and birth mother will not be identified or connected. Positive impacts of closed adoption include safe boundaries for the baby and full anonymity for the birth mother. However, closed adoptions can have negative impacts on your baby, including feelings of loss, low self-esteem, and a lack of identity. 

Through open adoption, birth mothers can maintain a connection with their babies as they grow up. With both their birth mother and adoptive family, these children have access to a wider support system. And, they can better understand their family history and genetic health. With a greater feeling of belonging, these children often have better senses of self and more positive mental health outcomes.

Which Type of Adoption Is Right for You?

As a birth mother placing your baby for adoption, it is important to ask these questions when determining which type of adoption is right for you.

  • Do my circumstances allow me to visit my child after the adoption?
  • How much communication am I willing to have with the adoptive parents?
  • Do I want to keep my adoption anonymous?
  • What kind of adoption has my baby’s best interests in mind?

When thinking through the answers to these questions, consider whether you want to have open communication with your baby after the completed adoption. If the answer is no, a closed adoption may be your best choice. But if you are interested in staying in touch with your child, an open or even semi-open adoption may be right for you.

A closed adoption agency can help birth mothers complete the adoption process while maintaining full privacy. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we specialize in open adoptions as well as in the facilitation of closed adoptions. We help birth mothers develop a birth plan and connect them to adopting families nationwide. Throughout the process, we provide counseling, financial support, and emotional care as they prepare for birth and adoption.

If you opted for open or semi-open adoption, our experts help to facilitate your post-placement terms. This includes scheduling meetings, mediating conversations, and helping birth mothers and adoptive parents get the most out of their visits.

Partner With Our Adoption Agency

Are you deciding between an open or closed adoption agency? St. Elizabeth Foundation would love to support you on your journey by sharing more about our adoption process. If you are considering placing your baby for adoption, we can help you determine your best birth and adoption plan. And, we also offer counseling services before and after placement. 

Give us a call at 225-769-8888 or send us a message to see how we can provide help during an unplanned pregnancy. From start to finish, we are here to encourage and empower you to make the decisions you want. Reach out to us today to learn more.

How Children Benefit From Open Adoption

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Open adoption offers many benefits for both birth mothers and adoptive families alike. For birth mothers or couples who aren’t ready for parenthood, you can trust that your baby will be placed into a loving and stable home. For adopting families, you can grow your family by welcoming a beautiful baby into your home. But how do open adoptions affect the adoptees themselves? Learn how open adoption near Monroe through St. Elizabeth Foundation can have a positive impact on adopted children.

Adoptees Can Develop Relationships With Their Birth Family

For birth mothers and adoptive families considering adoption near Monroe, open adoption allows your child to know both sets of their parents. In an open adoption, children can grow in an environment with knowledge of their birth family and why the adoption took place. This can have a direct influence on your child’s behavior, mental health, and well-being.

Rather than being unaware of their adoption or having no contact with their birth family, children in open adoptions have no barriers to communication with their birth families. In fact, this study has shown that adoptees aged 18 to 23 preferred knowing of their adoption over not being told. And with this openness, adoptees often develop greater comfort in communicating with both their birth parents and adoptive family.

Open Adoption Can Benefit the Adoptee’s Emotional Health

Adopted children need to have plenty of support as they develop. As they grow older, they may have many questions regarding their adoption and their birth family. Or, they may desire a bond with both their biological family as well as their adoptive family. Through open adoption, children have access to an extended support system. 

A study conducted by the Minnesota Texas Adoption Research Project showed that 84% of adoptees with open contact and communication with birth parents through open adoptions were highly satisfied with this connection. Children can develop bonds with their two sets of parents as well as biological and adoptive siblings and extended family. This fosters a stronger sense of identity and belonging. And, it gives adopted children even more people to love and be loved by. 

Adopted Children Can Learn About Their Family and Medical Background

Many adopted children have questions about their adoption. Open adoption allows both sets of parents to help their children understand the purpose behind their adoption and placement. And in the process, adoptees can learn about their family history and strengthen their relationship with both sets of parents. 

Relationships with their birth family and conversations with their adoptive family can foster pride in their cultural background and family history. And, this can even shine light on possible genetic health concerns. This connection can help a child develop a greater sense of self. And, they can better understand their health and feel supported by both families.

Searching for Adoption Agencies Near Monroe? Reach Out to Us

If you are searching for adoption resources near Monroe, St. Elizabeth Foundation is the open adoption agency you can trust. Are interested in placing your baby for adoption or are an adoptive family searching for an agency? St. Elizabeth is ready to help. Send us a message or call us at 225-769-8888. We would love to help you understand your options. And together, we can help you learn the benefits of adoption for birth families, adopting families, and children.

After the Adoption: What to Expect

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After a long road to adoption near Lafayette, it is finally time to bring your baby home. What an exciting time! But remember—even though your adoption has been completed, there are still a few responsibilities to keep in mind. What can adoptive families expect after their adoption is finalized? Discover how St. Elizabeth Foundation helps support you even after placement.

Post-Placement Visits

Once you are able to welcome your baby home, there are a few adoption-related responsibilities to be prepared for. First, make sure that you are ready for your post-placement visits. After your adoption near Lafayette has been finalized, the social worker who performed your home study will stop by during a specified supervision period. The purpose of these visits is to monitor developmental milestones and observe how your family is adjusting. Your social worker helps make sure that the placement is a good fit for both your family and your baby.

To prepare for your visits with your social worker, first ensure that you are still maintaining a safe environment for your child. Just like it was for your home study, do your best to keep your home in a similar condition to when you were preparing for your baby’s arrival. 

This is also a valuable time for you to ask questions or share any concerns or challenges with your social worker. Be sure to answer all questions honestly regarding your child’s growth, development, or any concerns you may have. And if you have your own questions, your social worker can help you find answers or connect you with resources for assistance.

Open Adoption Visits

In addition to these post-placement meetings, you will need to plan your visits with your baby’s birth mother if you completed an open adoption. This is a fantastic opportunity to bond with your baby’s birth mother or parents. Whether you have in-person meetings, video chats, or phone calls, take this time to get to know your baby’s family and share encouragement when you can.

Flexibility is key during these meetings. Understand that these open adoption visits can come with complex feelings for both the adoptive parents and the birth family. Encouragement, understanding, patience, and compassion should be given in abundance. And remember that you aren’t alone in the process! For both adoptive and birth families, our staff at St. Elizabeth Foundation can offer help with organizing open adoption meetings near Lafayette as well as post-placement counseling.

Post-Placement Tips

There is nothing more exciting than bringing home your beautiful baby after adoption. Now, it’s time to begin a new and exciting journey: parenthood. After your path to adoption is completed, this can feel intimidating—but don’t worry! There is so much joy and excitement ahead, and you can still find support as you enter this new chapter. 

After adoption, here are a few tips for adoptive parents:

  • Remember the benefits of counseling. Speaking with a counselor in all stages of your adoption journey can offer clarity and encouragement. This also includes the period after your adoption is finalized.
  • Don’t stop reading! There are countless books available to help adoptive parents learn more about parenting after placement. These can help encourage you and give you the tools you need for a smooth transition.
  • Stay in touch with other adoptive parents. There is so much strength to gain through conversations with others who empathize with your challenges. Keep up with other adoptive parents to gain advice and share about the ups and downs!

St. Elizabeth Foundation is passionate about connecting children with loving parents. If you are considering adoption, we would love to speak with you. Let us share more about our adoption agency near Lafayette and answer your questions. We are here to support you and cannot wait to encourage you as you begin your own adoption story.

Begin Your Adoption Journey Near Lafayette Today

Choosing to adopt a child is a wonderful adventure, even with its challenges. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are dedicated to stepping through the adoption process with you from submission to finalization. And once your placement is complete, we continue to support you as you embark on parenthood. If you are interested in learning more about adoption near Lafayette, give us a call at 225-769-8888. Or, send us a message with questions. We look forward to sharing more about the beauty of adoption with you.

Why Are Women Choosing Adoption vs Abortion?

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After learning of an unplanned pregnancy, birth mothers have several opportunities available, ranging from keeping their baby to choosing a new home for the child. You may know immediately that parenting your baby is not the right decision for you. For many women, this decision then comes down to two options: adoption vs abortion. How do you determine which of these is the right choice? Discover just a few of the reasons why birth mothers are choosing adoption over abortion.

1. You Aren’t Ready to Be a Parent

You may not be ready to be a parent for many reasons. And you shouldn’t feel guilty about this! In many circumstances, age can play a major role in this decision. Young birth mothers may not be ready to take on motherhood or may not have the resources needed to raise their babies. Even for older mothers, an unplanned pregnancy may not come at the right time. No matter your reasoning, you should never feel pressured into your decision. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer professional counseling to help you work through the complex emotions and decisions that come with an unplanned pregnancy. And we empower you to make the decision that is right for you.

If you do not feel confident that parenthood is the right choice for you, you may be considering the benefits of adoption vs abortion. Abortion is a very permanent decision—one that can leave you with regret and countless what-ifs. Not only does adoption take the responsibility and stress of parenthood off your shoulders, but it also places your baby in a safe and loving household. This gives you the freedom to move forward knowing that both you and your baby have abundant opportunities ahead.

2. You Aren’t Financially Able

The USDA found that on average, the cost of raising two children in a two-parent, middle-income household is over $233,000. This already challenging expense can be even more difficult for a single parent. While having a child can be a wonderful experience, this may not be financially plausible. And for this reason, many women may pursue other options when faced with an unexpected pregnancy.

Abortion is no small cost, ranging from hundreds of dollars to over $1000. Since abortion procedures are illegal in many states, the price of travel to a practicing state, room and board, and time lost at work can stack on top of an already expensive procedure. 

However, the costs of adoption vs abortion can be as drastically different as night and day. Adoption can remove the financial burden placed on mothers by eliminating out-of-pocket expenses. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we even provide financial aid for living, medical, and legal expenses during your pregnancy. If you are interested in learning more about the financial assistance you can receive during your adoption process, speak with a member of our team today.

3. Parenting Doesn’t Align With Your Future Goals

What is your vision for your future? It is perfectly fine if parenthood is not one of the stepping stones in the goals you have set for yourself. But what happens if you experience an unplanned pregnancy along the way? This may lead you to choose between adoption vs abortion. Just as you have planned for your long-term achievements, we encourage you to consider the success your baby could achieve as well. 

By placing your child for adoption, not only do you have the opportunity to continue pursuing your goals, but your baby can also grow and thrive with their adoptive family. Adoption gives you the power to pursue your professional and educational dreams. And it also gives your child the chance to do the same. If you opt for open adoption, you can watch your child grow up in a happy, healthy environment and encourage them to pursue their goals, too.

4. You Want To Give Your Baby Better Opportunities

The choice of adoption vs abortion can be a difficult decision. An expectant mother may not have the means to financially support a child. Or, they may not be able to provide them with the stability they need. Choosing adoption may require sacrificing your desire to raise your child in order to selflessly provide them with better opportunities. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we know how big this decision is, and we are here to support you as you pursue a loving future for your baby. Know that choosing adoption does not take away your place in your child’s future!

Our adoption agency specializes in open adoptions which allow birth mothers to remain in open communication with their baby and the adoptive family. Not only do we support you as you find the right home to place your bay, but we also help form the bridge between you and your child’s new home. With this decision, your baby can experience both your love and that of their adoptive parents. If you would like to discuss open adoption, our experts can help you understand the details and begin the adoption process.

Considering Adoption vs Abortion? Discover Your Options Through St. Elizabeth Foundation

If are deciding between adoption vs abortion, St. Elizabeth Foundation can offer a listening ear as you explore your options. Our kind and compassionate counselors make sure you have all the knowledge and resources you need to make the right decision for you and your baby. And if you choose to place your baby for adoption, we can help you determine your birth plan and connect you with adopting families nationwide. Simply get in touch with us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message for more information. 

3 Abortion Alternatives Birth Mothers Should Know About

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What do you do after the news of an unplanned pregnancy? You may worry that your options are limited. Luckily, you have many possibilities ahead of you aside from abortion. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we empower you to make the best decision for you and your baby, from raising your baby to placing them with loving guardians or adoptive parents. Let us explain three abortion alternatives to help you find the right option for you.

1. Parenting

Choosing to parent your baby is one of several positive abortion alternatives. Depending on your circumstances, you may be the sole caregiver of your baby or you may choose to co-parent with the baby’s father. While the initial news of an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming, you may be open to the idea of motherhood. With the support of friends, family, and counseling services, choosing the path of single parenthood can become less daunting. And if you choose to co-parent with the baby’s father, you can share the experience of raising your baby together.

Are you unsure if you are ready to take on parenthood? At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer free counseling services for expectant mothers in the midst of unplanned pregnancies. Speak with one of our trained counselors in a safe and loving environment to discuss parenthood and other placement options.

2. Legal Guardianship

If you are not ready to parent your baby but would like to remain in contact with them, you may be able to place your baby into legal guardianship. This role is typically fulfilled by a close friend or family member who agrees to take on legal custody. This guardian raises your child until you are able to regain custody. While they are in the care of this guardian, you have the opportunity to visit and discuss major decisions for your child, like schooling and healthcare.

Many circumstances may keep you from being able to parent your baby after learning of an unplanned pregnancy. Financial issues, health concerns, legal matters, and more may need to be resolved before you can accept full custody of your child. Choosing legal guardianship can bridge the period until you are ready. 

However, legal guardianship may come with its own challenges. This can place strain on your relationship with the chosen guardian. And, you may face opposing views on parenting. In addition to the struggles you may face with legal guardianship, remember that this can greatly impact your child, too. Inconsistent parenting and changes in living arrangements can be traumatic for children, especially during their developmental years. Make sure to choose your baby’s guardian wisely. 

3. Adoption

For some, parenting or legal guardianship may not be possible. Due to financial matters, family relationships, the absence of a spouse or partner, or other conflicts, you may be unable to keep your baby. Or, motherhood may not align with your goals in life. And you may wonder what other abortion alternatives are available. 

With the help of St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can begin the process of placing your baby for adoption. Through adoption, you can provide your baby with a loving home and a safe environment to grow. Like legal guardianship, adoption allows you to stay in contact with your baby, depending on the openness of your adoption. Our adoption agency specializes in open adoption, meaning that once your baby is adopted you can still keep in-person or virtual contact with them.

You have several options within the realm of adoption, as well. If you prefer a confidential adoption, St. Elizabeth Foundation can facilitate a closed adoption. This keeps your identity anonymous to the adopting families throughout the entire process. Once your baby is officially placed, no contact with your baby or the adoptive family is necessary. One of the experienced social workers at our adoption agency can help you understand each type of adoption and determine which is best for you.

Discover Abortion Alternatives With St. Elizabeth Foundation

We understand how overwhelming an unplanned pregnancy can be. Let us make sure you know all possible abortion alternatives. For counseling services and guidance on placing a child for adoption, reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation. Start by sending us a message or calling us at 225-769-8888. Don’t feel like your options are limited! Find care, support, and solutions through our adoption agency.