Discovering an unexpected pregnancy can bring a whirlwind of emotions — fear, confusion, uncertainty, and everything in between. You might not feel ready to share your news or your personal story, and that’s completely okay. Closed adoption offers a way to protect your privacy while ensuring your baby is placed in a loving home. It’s a choice rooted in care and compassion, and at St. Elizabeth Foundation in Louisiana, we’re here to guide you through it. Learn more about how closed adoption works, what other adoption options are available for those in Louisiana, and how we can support you during this time.
What Is a Closed Adoption?
In a closed adoption, the identities of the birth parents and adoptive family are kept private. This means there is no exchange of personal information. And after the adoption is finalized, the adoptive family raises your child without contact. However, even though there’s no communication after the adoption, you can still share important medical information to help the adoptive family keep your child healthy.
Why Some Birth Mothers Choose Closed Adoption
There’s no right or wrong reason to choose closed adoption. It’s all about what feels right to you. Birth mothers may choose this option for a couple reasons:
- Privacy: Some birth mothers feel that keeping their personal information private after the adoption process is important.
- Fresh Start: Closed adoption can provide the space to focus on your goals, education, or career without ongoing contact, allowing you to move forward at your own pace.
- Safety: A birth mother might choose closed adoption if she feels that her current situation isn’t safe or stable enough to raise her baby.
You Are Not Alone
If you are feeling unsafe, emotionally or physically, please know that support is available to help. St. Elizabeth Foundation is here for you with resources to connect you with someone who can help.
Here are immediate options:
- Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call 833-943-5746 for supportive, confidential guidance.
- Crisis Text Line: Text SHARE to 741741 for 24/7 assistance.
- Louisiana Statewide Hotline for Domestic Violence: Reach out at 888-411-1333 for help and protection.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 800-273-8255 for immediate assistance.
- National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: Speak to someone at 866-331-9474 who understands your situation.
You don’t have to face this alone — there is always someone ready to listen and help.
What to Consider Before Choosing Closed Adoption
Don’t feel pressure to jump straight into your decision. First, consider how it will affect you and your baby. Here are some helpful questions to guide your decision:
- How much do I want to be involved in my child’s life after adoption, if at all?
- Am I comfortable with not staying in contact with the adoptive family?
- How do I feel emotionally about the idea of closed adoption?
At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer free counseling to help you answer these questions, explore your feelings, and decide what is best for your future.
What Are Your Other Options?
If you’re not sure about closed adoption, you have other choices, too. These types of adoption give you the chance to stay connected with your child and the adoptive family.
- Open Adoption: You can have direct communication with your child and their adoptive family. This might mean visits, phone calls, or sharing pictures — it’s up to you and what feels right.
- Semi-Open Adoption: You can still stay in touch, but it’s usually through letters or emails sent through an adoption agency to keep things more private.
If you don’t want to cut off all communication with your child, that’s okay — you can choose a path that lets you stay connected. Remember, you have options that allow you to still be a part of your child’s life in a way that feels comfortable for you.
How St. Elizabeth Foundation Supports Birth Mothers in Louisiana
If you’re thinking about adoption, St. Elizabeth Foundation in Louisiana has served birth mothers and adoptive families for over 30 years. Here’s how we can help you:
- Free Counseling: We help you explore your feelings and guide you toward the best decision for you and your baby.
- Adoption Plan Options: Whether you choose open, semi-open, or closed adoption, we work with you to make a plan that fits your needs.
- Continuous Support: We’re here for you during and after the adoption process by offering the care and understanding you deserve.
For Open, Semi-Open, or Closed Adoptions in Louisiana, Choose St. Elizabeth Foundation
Whether you’re leaning toward closed adoption or considering another path, know that the decision is entirely up to you. If you’re still thinking through your options or just need someone to talk to, please don’t wait to reach out. Our team at St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you through this process.
You don’t have to make this decision alone. For counseling or more information, message us online or call 225-769-8888. We’re here to support you.