Open versus closed adoptions

by | May 11, 2020 | Adoption |

A woman who decides that she will place her baby for adoption has many options to consider. The type of adoptions she’s willing to go through with is one of these. There are two primary options – open and closed. Some individuals choose to use a hybrid of these two types. 

The primary difference between these types of adoption is how much potential contact the birth parents will have with the adoptive family after the adoption. In a closed adoption, which was the primary form of adoption in the past, there is no contact between the two families. Typically, only anonymous information is exchanged in a closed adoption. While the adoptive family might have some information, such as health records, there aren’t any identifying points within the documentation. 

In an open adoption, both families know each other. The adoptive parents might keep in contact with the birth parents based on the agreement between the two parties. This gives the birth parents a chance to watch the child grow; however, the adoptive parents can often change the terms of contact at will. 

The birth mother in an open adoption may appreciate the support she receives from the adoptive family during the pregnancy. In some cases, the adoptive mother will go with the birth mother to doctor visits, if the birth mother is comfortable with this. The adoptive family is usually at the hospital when the baby is born. 

If you’re a pregnant woman who wants to find an adoptive family for your baby, you should be sure that you’re taking steps to protect yourself. Working with an attorney who’s familiar with situations is beneficial.