If you are faced with an unplanned pregnancy, you can choose to keep your child, end your pregnancy, or place them for adoption. Both parenting your child and opting for abortion are permanent decisions that come with great emotional and financial consideration. With adoption through an established agency near Lafayette, you can instead connect your child to a home where they can receive the support they need. Don’t face the ups and downs of an unplanned pregnancy alone. If you are searching for a Lafayette adoption agency, find help, care, and support from St. Elizabeth Foundation in Baton Rouge! Are you wondering if placing your baby for adoption is the right choice for you? Here are five common reasons why birth mothers choose adoption for their children.
1. You Are Not Financially Ready for a Family
Having a baby and starting a family is expensive. In fact, raising a child to the age of 18 can cost over $230,000. While parenthood is a beautiful process, it can be a large stressor if it comes when you aren’t financially ready. How can you offer your baby the best life possible? Adoption can give your child the opportunity to grow up in a household with the financial support, medical and educational access, and stability they need.
2. You Are Too Young to Be a Mom
You may find that you are not yet ready to be a mom, especially at a young age. You may not have the time, means, or desire to take on the full-time responsibility of parenthood. Adoption can help you pursue the best outcomes for you and your baby! With our adoption agency near Lafayette, you can find a judgment-free zone for planning your adoption process and meeting prospective adoptive parents. If you choose open or semi-open adoption, you can keep in contact with your baby and their adoptive parents while still being able to focus on your own growth.
3. You Don’t Want to Choose Abortion
It’s understandable to consider all of your options when determining what to do after an unplanned pregnancy. At St. Elizabeth’s, we make sure you know what options are available to you. Instead of jumping into a permanent decision, we urge you to consider the benefits of open, semi-open, or closed adoption types. If you are searching for a Lafayette adoption agency, don’t hesitate to reach out to us in Baton Rouge. Get in touch with us for free counseling services to understand each possibility ahead of you to find the right choice for you and your baby.
4. You Have Different Goals for Your Future
Your goals matter, and having a child may not be a part of your plan. You should be able to continue taking the steps towards reaching your goals. And at our adoption agency near Lafayette, we can help you move forward without sacrificing the well-being of your baby. Start by considering where you see your life in two years, five years, and ten years. If you do not see raising a child as a part of this, let our caring workers at St. Elizabeth’s help you learn what adoption possibilities you can find.
5. You Want Your Child to Grow Up in a Two-Parent Household
As a single mother, you may wish for your child to grow up in a home with two present and supportive parents. If you face raising your child alone, choosing adoption can give your baby a future in a complete household. At St. Elizabeth’s, our adopting families consist of a mother and father who have been married for at least five years. These families are excited to introduce a baby into their homes and provide them with love, support, and care. We can help you find the right family for your child!
Frequently Asked Questions About Adoption
We understand you have many questions about adoption. It’s a big decision, and we are here to provide clear answers and support you every step of the way. Here are some common questions we hear at our adoption agency near Lafayette.
What is the adoption process like?
The adoption process is a journey we walk through with you. It generally involves these steps:
- Learning Your Options: We’ll talk with you about adoption and all your choices in a private, judgment-free space.
- Making a Plan: You’ll create a personal adoption plan that feels right for you, deciding on things like the type of adoption and the family you’d like for your child.
- Choosing a Family: You can look at profiles of loving, pre-screened families who are ready to welcome a child.
- Placement: After your baby is born, we will help you with the legal steps to place your child with the adoptive family you have chosen.
- Post-Adoption Support: Our support for you doesn’t end at placement. We are always here for you.
Will it cost me anything to place my baby for adoption?
No, there is no cost to you. All our services for birth mothers are completely free. This includes counseling, legal help, and support. We can also help with reasonable pregnancy-related living expenses as allowed by Louisiana law.
Can I choose the family that adopts my baby?
Yes, absolutely. You are in control of this important decision. We will provide you with profiles of hopeful adoptive families. These families have all been carefully screened by our team. You can choose the family that you feel is the best fit for your child.
What types of adoption can I choose from?
You can decide how much contact you want with your child and the adoptive family after the adoption.
The main types are:
- Open Adoption: You can have ongoing contact through visits, letters, and pictures.
- Semi-Open Adoption: Communication is handled through our agency to protect your privacy.
- Closed Adoption: There is no identifying information shared or contact between you and the adoptive family.
We can help you understand each option so you can choose what is most comfortable for you.
What if I change my mind?
You have the right to change your mind about adoption at any point before the final legal papers are signed. We want you to be confident in your choice. Our counselors at St. Elizabeth Foundation, a trusted adoption agency near Lafayette, will offer support and guidance without any pressure. We are here to help you make the decision that is best for you and your baby.
Looking for a Lafayette Adoption Agency? Work With Our Adoption Agency in Baton Rouge
If you would like more information on our adoption services or would like to speak with a member of our team, we would love for you to reach out to us at St. Elizabeth Foundation. Our adoption agency is located near Lafayette in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Give us a call at 225-769-8888, or send us a message through our website. We look forward to giving you the guidance and support you need!