4 Questions You May Ask During Your Unplanned Pregnancy in Shreveport

Finding out that you are pregnant unexpectedly can make you feel overwhelmed and confused. It’s normal to have a lot of questions racing through your mind. Maybe you are not ready to become a parent yet, or your current situation does not allow you to raise a child. Whatever the reason is, please know that you are not alone. St. Elizabeth Foundation in Baton Rouge is here to provide support and help you understand your options. Start by exploring four common questions birth mothers might ask when faced with an unplanned pregnancy in Shreveport and how you can find answers.

1. What Options Do I Have?

When finding out that you are expecting, you may wonder if you’re ready to parent a child. This is just one option available to you. Additionally, you can choose to place your baby for adoption. This can sound scary, but it can be a positive decision. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer closed, open, and semi-open adoptions to meet each birth mother’s individual needs.

In a closed adoption, there is no contact between the birth parents and the adoptive family after the placement of the child. This is unlike an open adoption where birth mothers may schedule regular visits and communication with the child and adoptive family. Semi-open adoption falls in between, with letters and updates sent through an intermediary from our adoption agency.

2. What Will My Baby Think of Me?

We understand that you may be worried about what your child will think of you if you choose adoption. However, adoption is a selfless and loving choice for your baby. They will grow up knowing that you loved them enough to choose the best life possible for them. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can connect with loving adoptive families and carefully select the best family for your child. Not only will they help provide your child with a beautiful life, but you can also have the opportunity to be a part of your child’s life as they grow up through open adoption.

3. Will My Friends and Family Support My Decision?

It’s essential to have a support system through the adoption process. This may be friends or loved ones who can offer love and emotional care as you navigate your birth and placement plan. Telling your loved ones about your unplanned pregnancy and your plans for adoption in Shreveport can be a vulnerable process. However, choosing adoption is a very personal decision, and what matters most is that you feel confident in your choice regardless of other’s opinions.

Our team at St. Elizabeth Foundation will also be there for you from start to finish. We have trained adoption professionals who offer support, guidance, and free counseling services throughout the adoption journey.

4. What Will My Future Look Like?

Adoption is a selfless act that not only provides a loving home for a child but also gives birth mothers the chance to pursue their goals and dreams. Some women may not feel ready for parenthood due to financial concerns, personal circumstances, or simply not feeling emotionally prepared. Adoption offers a sense of relief and hope for the future.

By choosing adoption, birth mothers can continue their education, advance in their careers, or simply focus on personal growth. At the same time, they are allowing their baby to grow in another stable and nurturing household. Adoption truly gives both the birth mother and her baby the opportunity for a brighter future.

Explore Your Options for an Unplanned Pregnancy in Shreveport

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy in Shreveport, know that there are options available to you. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are here to help you understand your options and deliver caring and compassionate support. For more information about the adoption process, call 225-769-8888 or send us a message online. Our Baton Rouge adoption agency is here to help you connect with adopting families in Louisiana and beyond as you make the best decision for you and your baby. 

What to Consider When Building a Birth Plan for Your Louisiana Adoption

Bringing a child into the world is a profoundly personal and emotional journey, especially when considering adoption. Building a birth plan is an important part of this journey. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we believe it should be tailored to meet each birth mother’s individual needs and desires. Our compassionate Louisiana adoption agency is dedicated to supporting you as you make thoughtful and informed decisions throughout this process. As you work through the details of your birth plan, keep these factors in mind.

Planning Your Birth Experience

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand the importance of empowering birth mothers to shape their labor and delivery experience. We encourage you to build a birth plan that aligns with your preferences and comfort level. Here are some questions to guide you through the planning process.

1. What hospital is right for your birth?

Selecting a hospital that feels comfortable for your Louisiana adoption plan is essential. Think about whether you have a preference for a particular hospital and discuss this with our adoption specialists. Additionally, think about the type of birth experience you want, whether it involves a natural birth, a c-section, or the use of pain management options like epidurals.

2. Do you want loved ones present for the birth?

Think about the loved ones within your support network and whether or not you want them present during the birth. Whether it’s close friends, family members, or someone you trust, having a support system can provide the emotional strength needed during this important moment.

3. Do you want the adoptive parents with you for the birth?

If you choose to have an open or semi-open adoption, you can decide whether you want the adopting family to be present during the birth. Some birth mothers find comfort and support in having the adoptive family present, while others may prefer a more private experience. Our team can help communicate your wishes to ensure everyone is on the same page.

4. Do you want to keep items to remember the day?

Think about whether or not you want to keep any items to remind you of the day. This may include keeping your baby’s hospital ID bracelet or blanket. These are items you can keep for yourself or share with the adoptive family and loved ones.

5. Do you want to spend time with your baby after the birth?

Consider whether you want to hold your baby immediately after birth or spend time alone with them before they are introduced to the adoptive family. These are deeply personal decisions, and our team is here to support you in creating a plan that reflects your desires.

St. Elizabeth Foundation Is Here to Support You

St. Elizabeth Foundation is committed to helping you throughout your adoption journey, from providing financial support to offering essential counseling services. We understand that concerns about hospital bills can be overwhelming, and we are here to help. Our team can provide financial aid to ensure you can focus on the emotional aspects of your adoption journey rather than worrying about the cost of medical care.

Navigating the adoption can be emotionally challenging. Our experienced counselors offer pre- and post-placement counseling services to help you:

  • Work through the details of your adoption and birth plan.
  • Learn how to talk with loved ones about your adoption.
  • Process the emotional needs that may arise throughout the adoption journey.

We believe that addressing both practical and emotional aspects is crucial to the well-being of birth mothers. Together, we can tailor our counseling services to your unique needs.

Start Your Louisiana Adoption Journey

As you decide on the details of your Louisiana adoption, remember that St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to guide and support you. Building a birth plan is a major step in this process, and our dedicated team is ready to assist you in making choices that align with your values and desires.

To learn more about the adoption process or start your adoption journey, reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation today. You can send us a message online or call 225-769-8888. Our caring team is here to provide more information about adoption and help you take the first steps toward a brighter future for you and your child.

3 Easy Ways to Support Your Loved One’s Infant Adoption in New Orleans

Bringing a child into the world is a journey of love, hope, and commitment. When someone close to you decides to grow their family through adoption, showing support is crucial. Navigating the complexities of infant adoption in New Orleans can be overwhelming, but with your encouragement, your loved ones can find comfort and strength.

St. Elizabeth Foundation aims to serve birth mothers and adopting families, including their community members, who may be seeking resources on how they can support their loved ones throughout the adoption process. Explore three easy ways to support your friend or family member through their infant adoption journey in New Orleans.

1. Educate Yourself About Adoption

Understanding the intricacies of infant adoption in New Orleans is the first step in providing meaningful support. Take the initiative to educate yourself about the legal processes, emotional challenges, and the rights of birth parents and adoptive families in New Orleans. By gaining knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to answer questions, offer guidance, and ease any concerns your loved ones may have.

Emphasize the importance of open communication in adoption, as it fosters trust among all parties involved. Knowing the local adoption laws and resources will empower you to be a valuable source of information, making the entire experience more manageable for your loved ones.

2. Offer Emotional Support

Infant adoption in New Orleans can be an emotional process, and your loved ones will undoubtedly face moments of joy, uncertainty, and stress. Be a pillar of strength by providing unwavering emotional support throughout their journey. Listen actively, offer a shoulder to lean on, and reassure them that their feelings are valid.

Organize gatherings or activities that allow your loved ones to relax and enjoy the support of their community. From baby showers for the adopting couple to casual get-togethers, creating a positive and loving environment will make a significant impact on their adoption experience. Remember, a strong support system is invaluable during the highs and lows of the adoption process.

3. Assist With Practical Matters

Navigating the adoption journey is a deeply personal and transformative experience. Amidst the flurry of paperwork, home studies, and logistical elements, your loved ones may find themselves in need of practical assistance.

Consider the family eagerly anticipating the arrival of their adopted child. They’ve poured over documents, navigated complex legal processes, and now face a new set of tasks. Preparing the nursery, assembling baby furniture, stocking up on essentials—it can all seem overwhelming.

This is where you can step in. Offering a helping hand in setting up the nursery isn’t just about painting walls or putting together a crib. It’s about creating a space of love and comfort for the baby and sharing in the adopting family’s process of building a home for their child.

Similarly, organizing a meal train for the first few weeks post-arrival can provide immense relief to the new parents. Amidst the joy and exhaustion, a warm, home-cooked meal can provide not just nourishment, but also a reminder of the support system they have.

Are You Interested in Learning More About Infant Adoption in New Orleans? Contact Us!

Your support for loved ones navigating the infant adoption process in New Orleans is priceless. By extending your understanding, empathy, and tangible assistance, you are making a difference in their lives. Remember—every kind word, gesture of love, and moment of emotional support adds to their strength and resolve. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are always here to help you better understand and navigate this journey alongside them. Reach out to us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message for more information.

6 Winter Care Tips for Your Baby After Adoption in Louisiana

Becoming a parent through adoption is an unforgettable journey filled with love, joy, and countless precious moments. Embracing the role of a parent for a baby through adoption in Louisiana can be both an overwhelming and heartwarming experience. However, as winter arrives, it introduces a unique set of challenges when caring for your newly adopted bundle of joy. Learn about six tips to help ensure your family has a beautiful first winter together with St. Elizabeth Foundation

1. Dress Them With Enough Layers, But Don’t Overdo It

With baby adoption in Louisiana, it’s important to understand that your little one can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults. Dressing your baby in light, multiple layers can keep them cozy without causing overheating. A simple rule of thumb? Dress your baby in one more layer than what you’re comfortably wearing, not including their diaper. 

2. Protect Their Delicate Skin

Harsh winter weather can be tough on a newborn baby’s sensitive skin as it is thinner and weaker than older children. Regularly applying a mild, unscented moisturizer can help prevent dryness and chapping. Also, remember to change their diapers frequently to avoid diaper rash, which can worsen due to dry winter air.

3. Take Off Their Jacket in the Car

As a loving parent, you want to ensure your baby stays warm during car rides. However, putting your little one in their car seat with a coat on can put them at risk in an accident. The layer of the coat between your baby and the car seat straps can shrink under pressure, potentially leaving your baby insecure in their seat.

We understand the concern about cold weather, but there’s a simple solution. Instead of using a coat, you can place a blanket over your baby’s lap to keep them warm without compromising car seat security. Just keep a close eye on your baby to ensure their face doesn’t become covered by the blanket. By following this advice, you can keep your little one snug and secure during car rides.

4. Prioritize Safe Sleep Habits

Ensuring your baby’s safety and well-being is paramount. Practicing safe sleep habits is crucial. Remember, a clutter-free crib is a safe crib. Avoid heavy blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals that could pose a suffocation risk. And if you’re concerned about your baby getting cold, a onesie, sleep sack, or fleece-footed pajamas are great options for warmth.

5. Schedule Regular Health Check-ups

After your baby adoption in Louisiana, regular health check-ups are vital. These visits allow your pediatrician to track your baby’s growth and development and address any concerns promptly. This can be especially important in the winter and other times when seasonal illnesses are a risk to your baby’s health.

When in doubt, follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’s recommended checkup schedule. Schedule a visit at birth, three to five days later, and then at one, two, four, six, nine, 12, 15, 18, and 24 months.

6. Shower Them With Love and Affection

Above all, shower your little one with abundant love, care, and affection. This strengthens your emotional bond and significantly contributes to their overall well-being. Cherish every moment of these first winter memories with your newest family member.

St. Elizabeth Foundation Is Here to Support You and Your Baby After Adoption in Louisiana

Becoming a parent through adoption is a beautiful journey filled with warmth and joy, but it can also come with new challenges. However, with the proper guidance and resources, you can ensure your baby’s first winter is as cozy as can be. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we’re dedicated to helping adopting couples provide the best home for their little ones. If you’re considering expanding your family through adoption, call us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message to start building your adoption plan. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

3 Holiday Ideas for Semi-Open or Open Adoption Arrangements in New Orleans

The holiday season is a time of joy, love, and connection. For birth mothers navigating open or semi-open adoptions, the desire to maintain a meaningful connection with their babies can be especially strong during this time. These adoption arrangements provide an opportunity for you to stay in touch with your child after their adoption near New Orleans through St. Elizabeth Foundation is finalized. This connection can foster a sense of continuity and love. As we approach the holidays, here are three heartwarming ideas for you to stay connected with your baby and their adoptive family.

First, Let’s Define Semi-Open and Open Adoption

In semi-open adoptions, birth mothers and adoptive families share information through an intermediary, often the adoption agency, without direct contact. Open adoptions, on the other hand, involve ongoing communication between birth mothers and adoptive families. This can include visits, calls, and even video chats. 

Both arrangements offer a spectrum of possibilities for maintaining a connection while respecting your boundaries. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we empower you to choose the adoption arrangement that best aligns with your desires for communication after your adoption near New Orleans is finalized. If you are searching for ways to make your holiday visits or communication special, here are a few ideas and tips to brighten the season.

1. Mail a Gift and Spreading Joy Across the Miles

Sending a thoughtful gift through the mail is a wonderful way to bridge physical distance during the holiday season. You can choose a variety of gifts, such as a stuffed animal, a photo album, a Christmas baby outfit, a cozy blanket, or anything that holds sentimental value. This gesture not only brings joy to your child but also allows you to participate in the holiday celebrations in a meaningful way. Whether it’s a small token or a carefully curated package, the act of sending a gift symbolizes love and connection.

Tips for Birth Mothers:

  • Choose a gift that holds special meaning for both you and your child.
  • Include a heartfelt note to express your love and holiday wishes.

2. Give Them a Call to Connect Through Conversations

If you want a more direct form of communication, scheduling a phone call can be a heartwarming experience. A simple call allows you to wish your baby a happy holiday season, share their love, and reassure them of your connection. In open adoptions, video calls provide an even more intimate way to connect, allowing you to see your child’s smiling face and share the holiday spirit in real time.

Tips for Birth Mothers:

  • Schedule the call in advance to ensure everyone is available.
  • Prepare a list of things you’d like to share or ask about during the call.

3. Plan a Christmas Activity You Can Share to Create Lasting Memories

If you have chosen an open adoption, planning a Christmas activity during a scheduled visit can create cherished memories for everyone involved. Whether it’s taking photos with Santa, making ornaments, or baking Christmas cookies at home, engaging in festive activities together strengthens the bond between you, the adoptive family, and your child.

Tips for Birth Mothers:

  • Choose an activity that aligns with your holiday traditions and preferences.
  • Capture the moments through photos or keepsakes to revisit in the future.

Adoption Near New Orleans: Reaching Out to St. Elizabeth Foundation

The holiday season emphasizes the importance of connection, making it a poignant time for birth mothers navigating the adoption process. St. Elizabeth Foundation offers compassionate support and guidance for those seeking adoption options near New Orleans. To learn more about open and semi-open adoption or begin the adoption process, send us a message online or call 225-769-8888. 

Adoption, as we believe at St. Elizabeth Foundation, is the greatest gift of love, hope, and new beginnings. St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to support you on your unique journey through adoption and placement. Reach out to us today to connect with loving families ready for adoption and for continued support after the process is complete.

What Is the Private Adoption Process in Louisiana?

November is National Adoption Month! This is the perfect time to learn more about the adoption process or finalize your own adoption plan, whether you are a birth mother giving the gift of adoption or a family ready to embrace parenthood through private adoption. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, it is our mission to provide unwavering support to birth mothers while guiding prospective adoptive parents through the private adoption process in Louisiana. Explore what private adoption in Louisiana entails and how our agency plays a pivotal role in this remarkable journey.

The Private Adoption Process in Louisiana

Private adoption, often referred to as domestic adoption, is carried out through a private adoption agency. Choosing a private adoption is a profound and compassionate way for birth mothers to provide loving families for their babies when they feel they are unable to do so themselves. 

According to research from the ​​National Council For Adoption, there were 39,601 U.S. adoptions in 2020. In Louisiana, private adoption is a process filled with care, guidance, and support from experienced professionals like the team at St. Elizabeth Foundation. Learn more about the steps birth mothers and adopting couples can take to begin their adoption journey. 

1. Choose Adoption

The decision to pursue private adoption is a deeply personal one. Birth mothers and adoptive families alike should take the time to consider their options and determine if this path aligns with their desires and circumstances. It’s a step toward a brighter future for both birth mothers and prospective parents. 

2. Partner With an Adoption Agency

Choosing the right adoption agency is crucial, and this is where St. Elizabeth Foundation comes into play. Our team provides comprehensive information throughout the private adoption process in Louisiana. Whether you’re a birth mother in need of support or a couple eager to welcome a child into your home, we are here to guide you through the process.

St. Elizabeth Foundation offers a wide range of services, including:

  • Birth mother counseling and support
  • Home study services
  • Assistance with legal matters
  • Matching services to connect birth mothers with loving families

By partnering with an adoption agency like St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of professionals who genuinely care about your well-being and the well-being of the child at the center of it all.

3. Establish Your Match

One of the most remarkable aspects of private adoption in Louisiana is the way birth mothers play an active role in selecting the family they believe will provide the best future for their child. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we facilitate this process, ensuring that birth mothers have the information and support they need to make this challenging decision.

When a birth mother chooses an adoptive family, it’s a beautiful moment of connection and trust. The match between the birth mother and the adoptive family is a pivotal step in the private adoption process, where the foundation’s expertise is invaluable.

4. Build the Birth Plan

With the guidance of St. Elizabeth Foundation, birth mothers have the opportunity to create a birth plan. This plan outlines their preferences for the birthing experience, including whether they want adoptive parents present at the birth, the level of contact they desire after the adoption, and more. Birth plans are personalized to each birth mother’s unique situation.

5. Finalize the Adoption

The final step in the private adoption process involves legal procedures to officially transfer custody of the child to the adoptive parents. St. Elizabeth Foundation ensures that all necessary legal documents are prepared and processed to finalize the adoption.

Take the First Step With St. Elizabeth Foundation

If you are considering private adoption in Louisiana during National Adoption Month or beyond, St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to offer unwavering support, guidance, and care. To learn more about the private adoption process, reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation today. 

Whether you are a birth mother interested in placement or an adoptive couple ready to file your application, you can send a message online or call 225-769-8888 to take the first step. Your journey to parenthood or your journey as a birth mother begins here, with St. Elizabeth Foundation by your side.

How to Adopt a Baby in Louisiana: A 7-Step Guide for Adopting Parents

Are you considering adopting a baby in Louisiana and are curious about the adoption process? Let St. Elizabeth Foundation help you through the journey of adopting a child, providing support and care every step of the way. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to adopt a baby in Louisiana through our local adoption agency in seven essential steps. From understanding the application and home study process to guiding you through finalization, our experienced team can help ensure a smooth and stress-free adoption process. We are committed to making your dream of building a family a reality.

Step 1: Qualify for Adoption

Before embarking on the adoption journey, it’s crucial to understand the qualifications set by St. Elizabeth Foundation. Our organization requires adopting couples to be married for at least five years, ensuring stability and a strong foundation for your new family.

Step 2: Apply for Adoption Through St. Elizabeth Foundation

Once you meet the qualification criteria, the next step is to submit an adoption application to our infant adoption agency. This application initiates the process. It’s essential to be patient as the review may take some time. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that potential adopting couples meet all requirements and can provide the safest and most loving home possible.

Step 3: Complete a Home Study

The home study is one of the most critical steps in the adoption process. It’s crucial to maintain a clean, loving, and child-friendly space for your future baby. A social worker will visit your home to assess the environment and ensure it’s safe and suitable for a child. While this may seem daunting, don’t worry. We have prepared some useful tips that can help you prepare your home for the inspection. 

Step 4: Finish the Adoption Education Program

If you’re thinking about how to adopt a baby in Louisiana, you may also be wondering about the specific challenges of raising an adopted child. St. Elizabeth Foundation understands that knowledge is power when providing a safe and loving home for your new child. This is why adoptive parents are required to complete an adoption education program. The program imparts important information about parenting, attachment, bonding, and openness in adoption. This education program equips you with the skills and knowledge you need to provide the best possible care for your baby.

Step 5: Match With a Birth Mother

Building a connection with a birth mother is integral to the adoption process. St. Elizabeth Foundation will assist you in creating an adoption profile, which will be shared with birth mothers. This profile allows you to share information about your family, traditions, and why you’ve chosen adoption. It’s a way for birth mothers to learn about potential adoptive parents, fostering a sense of trust and connection during this life-changing decision.

Step 6: Understand Your Legal Responsibilities

Adoption comes with various legal responsibilities for adopting parents and birth mothers, and it’s essential to be informed about your legal rights. The type of adoption can directly influence this. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer three types of adoption:

  • In a closed adoption, no contact is maintained between the birth mother and the adoptive family.
  • In a semi-open adoption, limited information and communication may be shared.
  • In an open adoption, the birth mother and adoptive family maintain an ongoing relationship. 

St. Elizabeth Foundation empowers birth mothers to choose the type of adoption that best suits their needs and the well-being of their babies. No matter the openness or confidentiality of the adoption, we will help you understand your rights in the process.

Step 7: Finalize Your Adoption

Once the adoption process reaches its final stage, St. Elizabeth Foundation will help you navigate the legalities and court proceedings necessary to finalize the adoption. In open adoptions, you may also be introduced to the birth mother, allowing you to establish a connection and build a unique and beautiful extended family.

Wondering How to Adopt a Baby in Louisiana? St. Elizabeth Foundation Can Help.

Adopting a baby is a remarkable journey, and St. Elizabeth Foundation is committed to providing unwavering support and guidance. If you have more questions about how to adopt a baby in Louisiana, don’t hesitate to contact St. Elizabeth Foundation for more information about the process or to begin your application. You can send a message or call 225-769-8888. Your dream of expanding your family and providing a loving home to a child is within reach with St. Elizabeth Foundation by your side.

What Are My Adoption Options in Louisiana?

Facing an unplanned or unexpected pregnancy can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. Birth mothers may find themselves at a crossroads, contemplating various options for the future. While parenting their baby or entering foster care are possibilities, adoption is a loving and selfless choice. Birth mothers who consider adoption can provide their children with a stable and loving home and access to opportunities for them to thrive. Learn more about three adoption options available to birth mothers in Louisiana.

Understanding Adoption Options in Louisiana

Birth mothers in Louisiana can choose from three forms of adoption through St. Elizabeth Foundation: open, semi-open, and closed. Each option offers a different level of contact and involvement between the birth mother and the adoptive family, allowing birth mothers to make a choice that aligns with their comfort and preferences.

Open Adoption

Open adoption allows birth mothers and adoptive families to have ongoing contact and communication. In open adoptions, birth mothers can maintain relationships with their child and the adoptive parents. This arrangement can include visits, phone calls, and updates on the child’s life.

Benefits of Open Adoption

  • Maintaining Connection: Birth mothers can continue to be a part of their child’s life, offering love and support as they grow.
  • Peace of Mind: Birth mothers can see firsthand that their child is safe, loved, and thriving in their adoptive family.
  • Reduced Grief: Open adoption can help birth mothers find closure and lessen the grief associated with separation.

Semi-Open Adoption

Semi-open adoption strikes a balance between open and closed adoption options in Louisiana. Birth mothers and adoptive families may exchange information through an intermediary from St. Elizabeth Foundation. While direct contact may be limited, updates and letters can still be exchanged.

Benefits of Semi-Open Adoption

  • Privacy: Birth mothers can maintain some level of privacy while still receiving updates about their child’s well-being.
  • Control: Birth mothers can decide how much contact they are comfortable with, allowing them to have a say in their adoption plan.
  • Peace of Mind: Birth mothers can know that their child is thriving without the pressure of constant contact.

Closed Adoption

Closed adoption involves no direct contact or communication between birth mothers and adoptive families. In closed adoptions, the identities of both parties are kept confidential.

Benefits of Closed Adoption

  • Privacy: Birth mothers can maintain complete privacy and anonymity.
  • Emotional Distance: Some birth mothers may find it emotionally easier to move forward without direct contact.
  • Freedom to Pursue Future Goals: Birth mothers can move forward with education, career opportunities, and personal growth while knowing their child is in a loving and stable environment.

St. Elizabeth Foundation: Supporting Birth Mothers in Louisiana

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand that deciding to place your baby for adoption is a deeply personal and challenging choice. We are here to support and empower birth mothers on their adoption journey, providing the resources and guidance needed to make the best decision for both themselves and their babies.

Our dedicated team offers a range of services to assist birth mothers, including:

  • Counseling: We provide emotional support and counseling services to help birth mothers navigate the complexities of adoption.
  • Financial Assistance: St. Elizabeth Foundation offers financial support to alleviate the burden of medical and living expenses during pregnancy.
  • Education: We ensure birth mothers are well-informed about the adoption process and their rights, helping them make informed choices.

We believe every birth mother deserves compassion, respect, and the opportunity to create a loving future for their child through adoption. We are committed to helping birth mothers find adoption options that align with their needs and desires.

Discover Your Adoption Options in Louisiana at St. Elizabeth Foundation

If you are a birth mother facing an unplanned pregnancy and are interested in exploring your adoption options in Louisiana, reach out to the team at St. Elizabeth Foundation. Message us or call 225-769-8888 to learn more about adoption or begin the adoption process. Our team is here to support you on your journey, providing the guidance and assistance you need to make the best choice for you and your baby.

8 Facts About Open Adoption in Louisiana

Are you considering adoption in Louisiana? Open adoption is a wonderful option to explore, especially if you’re a birth mother who wants to maintain contact with your baby following adoption. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are devoted to helping birth mothers in Louisiana make adoption plans for their unplanned pregnancies. Let’s explore eight key facts about open adoption in Louisiana and why it can be an incredible choice for both birth mothers and adoptive families.

First, What Is Open Adoption?

Open adoption is a type of adoption where the birth mother and adoptive family maintain some level of contact and communication after the adoption is finalized. This can range from occasional letters and pictures to in-person visits. Open adoption allows birth mothers to play an active role in their children’s lives, even if they are not the primary caregivers. It can be a heartwarming and fulfilling experience for all parties involved. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we specialize in open adoptions, as well as semi-open and closed options. We can help birth mothers develop their adoption plans and help mediate communication after placement and finalization. If you are interested in open adoption, here are eight facts about the process and its emotional benefits.

1. A Birth Mother Can Remain in Her Baby’s Life

One of the most significant advantages of open adoption in Louisiana is that birth mothers can remain a part of their child’s life. This means that you can continue to build a relationship with your child as they grow, providing love and support from a distance.

2. Birth Mothers Get to Know the Adoptive Family Before the Adoption is Finished

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we empower birth mothers in every decision of the adoption process—including choosing the adoptive families they deem best for their babies. In an open adoption, birth mothers have the opportunity to get to know the adoptive family during the adoption process. This can provide peace of mind and reassurance, knowing that your child is going to a loving and caring home.

3. Birth Mothers Can Gain Emotional Closure Through Open Adoption

Grief can accompany the adoption process. While placing your baby for adoption is a brave and selfless decision, it is not a small one. Open adoption can provide birth mothers in Louisiana with emotional closure. In addition, knowing that they can still be a part of their child’s life can help alleviate some of the loss associated with adoption.

4. Children from Open Adoptions Often Experience Emotional Benefits

Children who grow up in open adoptions tend to benefit emotionally. Studies have shown that adopted children aged 18 to 23 were more satisfied knowing their birth parents rather than not being told about their adoption. Additionally, they can form a sense of identity that includes both their birth and adoptive families.

5. Adopted Children Can Normalize Their Adoption Stories

Open adoption allows adopted children to grow up with an understanding of their adoption story. Rather than growing up with questions about their birth families, cultural history, or why they were placed for adoption, their adoption story becomes a normal part of their identity.

6. Open Adoption Can Provide Answers to Medical Questions

In cases where there are medical concerns or hereditary conditions, open adoption can be particularly valuable. Birth families can provide crucial medical information that can benefit the child’s health.

7. Communication Can Evolve Over Time

As a child ages, communication and visits can become even more frequent in open adoptions. This evolution allows for a deeper and more meaningful relationship between birth mothers and their children.

8. Open Adoption is Currently the Most Widely Chosen Option

In recent years, open adoption has become the most widely chosen option by birth mothers and adoptive families. While closed adoptions were more commonly sought in the past, studies estimate that closed adoption only accounts for 5% of modern adoptions. This shift reflects the growing recognition of the emotional and psychological benefits it offers to all involved parties.

Learn More About Open Adoption in Louisiana With St. Elizabeth Foundation

Open adoption in Louisiana offers numerous benefits for birth mothers, adoptive families, and adopted children. If you’re a couple considering adoption or a birth mother looking to place your baby for adoption, we encourage you to reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation. Our dedicated team is here to provide support, guidance, and care throughout the adoption process. You can send us a message or call 225-769-8888 to learn more about open adoption or begin your adoption journey. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are committed to helping you make the best choice for your family and your child’s future.

Writing Your Adoption Profile: 6 Tips for Adopting Parents

Are you considering adoption in Baton Rouge? The journey toward expanding your family through adoption is a beautiful and life-changing one. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand the importance of creating a compelling adoption profile that truly represents who you are as a family. Your adoption profile is your chance to connect with birth mothers and share your story in a way that resonates with them. Learn six essential tips for crafting an adoption profile that showcases your uniqueness and the love you’re ready to offer to a child.

1. Share Your Relationship and Journey

Every love story is special, and birth mothers want to know about yours. In this section, introduce yourselves as a couple. Share details about your professions, hobbies, and interests. Let your personalities shine through as you describe how your journey has led you to adoption. Whether you met in college or through mutual friends, these personal stories help create a connection between you and the birth mother.

2. Talk About Your Home

Your home is where your family grows and thrives. If you have children, talk about them and their unique personalities. Describe your home environment and how you’ve fostered a safe and nurturing space for your family. Emphasize the importance of safety measures and how you make your home a place of joy and growth for everyone.

3. Discuss Why You’ve Chosen Adoption

Adoption is a deeply personal decision, and birth mothers are eager to understand why you’ve chosen this path. Be open and honest about your motivations. Whether you’ve faced infertility challenges or simply have a strong desire to share your love with another child, express your heartfelt reasons for pursuing adoption in Baton Rouge.

4. Pets, Hobbies, and Travel

A birth mother wants to envision the life her baby will have with you. If you have pets, share endearing stories about them. Discuss hobbies that bring your family closer. Additionally, if you enjoy traveling, explain how you plan to introduce your child to new cultures and experiences. These fun facts and activities allow birth mothers to see the potential for enriching their child’s life.

5. Tell More About Your Extended Family

Family is an integral part of a child’s life, and birth mothers will want to know about your extended family. Describe the role they play in your lives and how they contribute to the loving environment you offer. Whether it’s grandparents, aunts, uncles, or even close family friends, highlight the support system your child will have.

6. Holidays & Family Traditions

Family traditions create lasting memories and connections. Share details about your favorite holidays, customs, and celebrations. A birth mother will appreciate knowing the kind of traditions her baby will grow up with and the special moments they’ll share with your family.

Begin Your Adoption Application in Baton Rouge Today

If you’re excited about adopting and want to start your journey, St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to support you. Building an adoption profile is an essential part of the process, and we can help you create a profile that honestly and authentically represents your family. To begin your adoption process or learn more about adoption in Baton Rouge, feel free to reach out to us. You can send us a message or give us a call at 225-769-8888.

Remember, your adoption profile is a window into your hearts and home. It’s a chance to connect with birth mothers who are seeking the perfect family for their babies. By sharing your journey, values, and dreams, you’re taking a meaningful step toward welcoming a child into your loving family.