How to Place a Baby for Adoption: A Step-by-Step Guide

Deciding to place a baby for adoption is a life-changing decision made out of love and care for the child’s future. If you are considering adoption, it is important to understand the process, your rights, and the resources available to support you, including the guidance of an adoption professional. 

This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to place a baby for adoption, covering key aspects such as legal requirements, emotional considerations, choosing an adoption agency, and post-placement support.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 19,000 newborns are placed for adoption each year. While every adoption journey is unique, this guide provides a general overview of what to expect and how to treat your own personal journey. 

Step 1: Understanding Your Adoption Options

Before starting the process, it is essential to understand the different types of adoption and how they affect your level of involvement after placement.

  • Open Adoption – You maintain some form of communication with the adoptive family, which can include phone calls, letters, photos, or even in-person visits. Open adoption accounts for over 90% of domestic adoptions today, as it allows for continued connection while ensuring the child’s well-being.
  • Semi-Open Adoption – Communication between you and the adoptive family happens through an adoption agency or mediator, providing updates while keeping personal information private.
  • Closed Adoption – No identifying information is shared, and there is no contact after placement. This option is less common today but may be preferred in certain situations.

Choosing the right type of adoption depends on what you feel is best for you and your child’s future. Choosing adoption is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your options and what is best for you and your child.

Step 2: Choosing an Adoption Agency or Adoption Professionals

Selecting a reputable adoption agency or adoption professionals is one of the most critical decisions in this process. An experienced agency will provide:

  • Guidance and education – A clear understanding of your rights, adoption laws, and options. Texas Adoption Center offers a third party legal consultation to ensure birth parents fully understand the legal affidavits prior to signing. 
  • Emotional support – Many agencies offer counseling and support groups for birth mothers before and after placement. Texas Adoption Center offers lifelong support for clients.
  • Financial assistance – In Texas, expectant mothers placing a baby for adoption may qualify for assistance with medical bills, housing, transportation, and other pregnancy-related expenses.

Adoption agencies provide both financial and emotional support to help you through this critical transition.

Working with a licensed agency ensures that your adoption is handled legally and ethically. Texas Adoption Center specializes in providing compassionate, judgment-free support to birth mothers, helping them make informed decisions about their adoption journey.

Step 3: Creating an Adoption Plan

An adoption plan allows you to make key decisions about your adoption experience, including:

  • Choosing the type of adoption – Determining whether you want open, semi-open, or closed adoption.
  • Selecting the adoptive parents – Identifying specific qualities you want in the adoptive family, such as location, lifestyle, values, and parenting philosophy.
  • Planning for the birth and hospital stay – Deciding who will be present during delivery, whether you want time alone with your baby, and how placement will occur.

Your adoption specialist will help you develop a plan that aligns with your needs and comfort level.

Step 4: Choosing an Adoptive Family

One of the most significant steps in the adoption process is selecting the right adoptive family. Adoption agencies provide detailed parent profiles, which typically include:

  • Photos and personal background
  • Parenting philosophy and family values
  • Education and careers
  • Motivation for adoption

Choosing the right adoptive family is crucial to ensuring a positive future for your child.

If you choose an open or semi-open adoption, you may have the opportunity to meet or speak with the adoptive family before placement. According to research by the National Council for Adoption, about 67% of adopted children today have some level of contact with their birth parents, highlighting the growing preference for open adoption arrangements.

Step 5: Preparing for the Hospital and Birth

Preparing for the hospital and birth is a crucial step in the adoption process. As a birth mother, you have the right to create a hospital plan that meets your needs and preferences. This plan should include details such as:

  • Who will be present during the delivery
  • What type of medical care you will receive
  • How you want to be supported during the hospital stay
  • What kind of contact you want with your child, as well as the adoptive family, during the hospital stay

Your adoption agency or adoption specialist can help you create a hospital plan that is tailored to your needs and wants. They can also provide you with information about the hospital’s policies and procedures, as well as any specific requirements or restrictions.

It’s also important to consider the adoptive family’s role during the hospital stay. You may want to discuss with them how they will be involved, such as being present during the delivery or visiting with you and the baby after birth.

Adoption laws vary by state, but in Texas, birth mothers have legal rights and protections throughout the process. Here are the key legal steps:

  • Understanding your rights – Adoption agencies should provide legal counseling to ensure that you fully understand your rights before signing any documents.
  • Signing adoption paperwork – Texas law requires birth mothers to wait at least 48 hours after birth before signing the Relinquishment of Parental Rights affidavit . This ensures that the decision is made with full clarity and confidence.
  • No financial responsibility – Birth mothers do not pay for any adoption-related services. Texas law allows for certain financial assistance to help with pregnancy-related expenses through a licensed adoption agency.

An adoption specialist or attorney will guide you through the legal process, ensuring that all procedures are completed ethically and according to state regulations.

Step 7: Communicating with the Adoptive Parents

Communicating with the adoptive parents is an important part of the adoption process. The level of communication will depend on the type of adoption you have chosen, such as open, semi-open, or closed adoption.

In an open adoption, you may have regular contact with the adoptive parents, such as phone calls, video calls, or in-person visits. You may also receive updates and photos of the child as they grow and develop.

In a semi-open adoption, you may have less frequent contact with the adoptive parents, such as occasional phone calls or emails. You may also receive updates and photos of the child, but less frequently than in an open adoption. You may choose this contact to be facilitated through the adoption agency or a third party to allow for privacy. 

In a closed adoption, you may have little to no contact with the adoptive parents. However, you may still receive updates on the child through the adoption agency or attorney.

It’s essential to discuss your communication preferences with the adoptive parents and the adoption agency or attorney to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Step 8: The Birth and Placement Process

Having a birth plan in place can help make the hospital experience more comfortable.

This stage involves important decisions and emotional considerations as you prepare to place your baby for adoption.

Many birth mothers experience a range of emotions at this stage, as delivering a child is a life-changing and emotionally charged event. 

In Texas, the adoption paperwork can be signed 48 hours after the baby is born. This is a critical step, as it ensures the child is legally able to be placed in the care of the adoptive parents.

Your adoption agency or attorney will guide you through the relinquishment and placement process. 

Step 10: Post-Placement Support

The adoptive placement  is not the end of the journey—it is a lifelong decision that comes with emotional challenges and rewards. Post-placement support services are available to help birth mothers adjust to life after adoption. Post-placement support is crucial for birth mothers who have chosen adoption. These services may include:

  • Counseling and mental health support – Adoption-related grief is normal, and professional counseling can help process emotions in a healthy way.
  • Ongoing communication (if applicable) – If you choose an open or semi-open adoption, you may receive updates and maintain contact with the adoptive family.
  • Financial support (where applicable) – Some agencies offer post-placement assistance to help with transition-related expenses.

A study by the Child Welfare Information Gateway found that birth mothers who receive ongoing post-adoption emotional support report higher levels of emotional well-being compared to those who do not. Seeking support can make a significant difference in your healing process.

Step 11: Healing and Recovery

Healing and recovery are essential parts of the adoption process. As a birth mother, you may experience a wide range of feelings after the adoption, including grief, sadness, fear, relief, or other emotions.

It’s essential to allow yourself time and space to heal physically and emotionally. This may include:

  • Seeking counseling or therapy to process your emotions
  • Connecting with other birth mothers who have gone through a similar experience
  • Taking care of your physical health through rest, nutrition, and exercise
  • Engaging in activities that bring you joy and comfort

Your adoption agency or attorney may also provide ongoing support and resources to help you heal and recover. This may include:

  • Counseling or therapy sessions
  • Support groups for birth mothers
  • Online resources and educational materials
  • Ongoing communication and check-ins

Remember, healing and recovery are unique to each individual, and it’s essential to take the time and space you need to process your emotions and move forward.

Questions to Consider With Adoption

Is placing my child for adoption the right decision for the child and me?

Deciding whether to place your child for adoption is a deeply personal choice. There is no right or wrong answer—only what feels best for you and your situation. Some factors to consider include:

  • Financial Stability – Are you in a position to provide for your child(ren)’s needs now and in the future?
  • Emotional Readiness – Are you prepared to take on the responsibilities of parenthood at this time in your life?
  • Support System – Do you have family or community support to help you raise your child?
  • Future Goals – Does parenting align with your personal, educational, or career goals?

Choosing adoption is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your options and what is best for you and your child.

Many birth mothers who choose adoption do so because they want to provide their child with opportunities they may not be able to offer at that moment. If you are unsure, speaking with an adoption specialist or counselor can help you explore your options in a judgment-free environment.

Will this decision impact my mental health?

Yes, placing a baby for adoption is an emotional experience that can affect your mental health. Many birth mothers experience a mix of emotions, including grief and heartache, but also  hope. It is completely normal to feel a wide range of emotions during and after the adoption process.

Studies show that birth mothers who receive post-placement counseling and emotional support tend to have better long-term mental health outcomes. Adoption agencies, including Texas Adoption Center, offer support groups, therapy referrals, and emotional resources to help you through the process.

If you choose adoption, it is important to seek professional guidance and surround yourself with a supportive network to help process your emotions in a healthy way.

How can I ensure my child will go to the right home?

Adoption agencies follow strict screening and approval processes to ensure that adoptive families are fully prepared to provide a safe, loving, and stable home. The approval process includes:

  • Home studies – Licensed social workers conduct in-depth home visits to assess the environment and readiness of prospective adoptive parents.
  • Background checks – Criminal and child abuse clearances are required for all adoptive parents.
  • Interviews and references – Families must provide personal references and undergo multiple interviews to assess their suitability for adoption.
  • Financial and emotional readiness – Adoptive parents must demonstrate financial stability and emotional preparedness for raising a child.

As a birth mother, you have full control over selecting the adoptive family. You can review parent profiles, meet potential adoptive families, and ask questions before making a decision. If you choose open adoption, you can also maintain contact with your child and their adoptive family.

If you have specific wishes for your child’s upbringing, your adoption specialist can help you find a family that aligns with your values and preferences.

Final Thoughts on Adoption Placement

Placing a baby for adoption is a courageous decision made out of love and the desire to provide the best possible future for your child. While the process involves many emotions and important decisions, you do not have to go through it alone.

If you are considering adoption and need guidance, Texas Adoption Center is here to help. Our team provides compassionate support, legal guidance, and post-placement care to ensure that every birth mother feels empowered in her decision.For more information or to speak with adoption professionals, contact us today.

I Want to Adopt a Baby: 10 Next Steps

Adopting a baby is a beautiful and life-changing decision, but the process can feel overwhelming without a clear roadmap. If you’ve found yourself thinking, “I want to adopt a baby,” you’re not alone. Many prospective parents share the same dream, but figuring out where to start can be challenging, especially when considering the right adoptive family for the child.

This guide will walk you through the 10 essential steps to adopting a baby, from understanding different types of adoption to finalizing the legal process. By the end, you’ll have a clear, step-by-step plan to help you navigate this incredible journey.

Step 1: Decide if Adoption is the Right Path for You

Before you dive into the process, take some time to reflect on your reasons for adopting and whether it aligns with your family’s goals and expectations. Adoption is a long-term commitment, and ensuring that you are emotionally, financially, and mentally prepared is crucial.

Consider these key questions:

  • Why do I want to adopt a baby? Is it because of infertility, a desire to provide a loving home, or a deep calling to become a parent?
  • Am I emotionally prepared for the adoption journey? Adoption can involve wait times, uncertainty, and legal complexities. Are you ready for these challenges?
  • Do I understand the differences between adoption and biological parenting? Raising an adopted child may come with unique emotional and social dynamics, such as discussions about their birth family and background.
  • What are my feelings about expectant families that choose to place their child for adoption? Am I open to a lifelong relationship with the birth family so my child has a connection to their history? Do I understand that birth families are not surrogates and this is their child until placement officially occurs? 

Talking with other adoptive parents, seeking counseling, or reading personal adoption stories can help provide insight into what to expect.

Step 2: Learn About the Different Types of Adoption

There are several different paths to adoption, and understanding your options will help you choose the best fit for your family.

I. Domestic Infant Adoption

  • Adoptive parents are most oftenmatched with an expectant mother before the baby is born; although in some cases the baby may be born already.
  • Domestic infant adoption can be done through an adoption agency or independent adoption attorney . 
  • Many domestic infant adoptions involve open adoption, where birth families maintain some level of contact with the child.

II. Foster Care Adoption

  • Adopting through the foster care system is often more affordable than private adoption.
  • Children available for adoption may be infants, toddlers, or older children. There are numerous resources and programs available to connect adoptive families with foster children waiting for permanent homes.
  • Many foster care adoptions involve children who have experienced trauma and require additional emotional support.

III. International Adoption

  • Adopting a baby from another country involves working with adoption agencies or attorneys and meeting that country’s specific legal requirements.
  • The process can take one to five years due to immigration paperwork, travel, and home study requirements.
  • Some countries have restrictions on adoptive parents based on age, marital status, or income. Domestic adoption, on the other hand, refers to adopting a child within the U.S.

IV. Relative or Kinship Adoption

  • A child is adopted by a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or another family member to keep them within the extended family.

Each adoption path has different legal, financial, and emotional implications, so take your time researching before making a decision.

Step 3: Choose an Adoption Agency or Attorney

The agency or attorney you work with will play a major role in guiding you through the adoption process. Choose carefully by considering:

  • Experience and reputation: Look for agencies with strong reviews and success stories.
  • Services offered: Some agencies provide counseling, home study services, and post-adoption support. How well do they support the birth families through such a monumental decision?
  • Adoption costs and financial assistance options: Some agencies help families apply for adoption grants or financial aid.
  • State requirements: Adoption laws vary by state, so ensure your agency is familiar with all regulations locally and in the state of placement.

If you’re pursuing independent adoption (without an agency), you’ll need an experienced adoption attorney to handle legal paperwork and birth parent rights.

Step 4: Complete a Home Study

A home study is a mandatory evaluation to ensure your home and lifestyle are suitable for raising a child. This process can take three to six months and includes:

I. Background Checks:

  • National and local criminal history, child abuse clearances from all states lived in the last five years, sex-offender checks, etc..
  • Medical and financial assessments.

II. Interviews:

  • A social worker will interview you, your partner (if applicable), anyone living in your home age 3+, and any children living outside of the home (shared custody or adult children).
  • They willask about your childhood, parenting beliefs, family relationships, and lifestyle, etc.

III. Home Visit:

  • Your home must be safe, clean, and child-friendly.
  • You may need to make modifications, like installing baby gates or securing furniture.

IV. Parenting Education:

  • Some states require adoptive parents to complete parenting classes focused on adoption-related topics. A child becomes legally available for adoption when both birth parents agree to relinquish their parental rights or have had their rights terminated.

Since the home study is often the longest part of the adoption process, starting early is essential.

Step 5: Prepare Financially for Adoption

Adoption can be expensive, with costs ranging from $10,000 to $50,000+ depending on the type of adoption. Financial preparation is key.

Ways to Finance Adoption:

Understanding the full scope of adoption costs will prevent financial stress down the road.

Step 6: Create an Adoption Profile

For domestic infant adoption, adoptive families create a profile book and/or video that expectant parents will review. Adoptive parents choose to adopt a newborn baby for various personal reasons, which can significantly influence their adoption journey.

What to Include:

  • Photos of your family, home, and lifestyle.
  • A heartfelt letter explaining why you want to adopt.
  • Your parenting values and hopes for your future child.

It is highly recommended to pursue a professional profile book designer to put your best foot forward (Little Ampersand Co., For This Child, Love Makes, Kindred + Co., and many more). A well-crafted profile can increase the chances of being selected by an expectant mother.

Step 7: Match with a Birth Mother or Child

The waiting period to match with an expectant mother can range from a few months to several years.

Adopting a newborn baby is an emotional journey that involves various steps and the support of an adoption agency, highlighting the beauty of bringing a newborn into a family through adoption.

What Happens During Matching?

  • Expectant parents review profiles and choose the adoptive family they feel is the best fit.
  • If both parties agree, they may communicate through meetings, phone calls, video calls, texts, or emails.
  • A birth plan may be discussed, outlining expectations for hospital time and post-birth contact.

Patience and flexibility are key—each journey is unique, and matches happen at different paces. There may also be many changes throughout the journey.

Step 8: Finalize the Adoption Process

Once the baby is born and placed in your care, you must legally finalize the adoption.

  • Birth parents voluntarily relinquish parental rights.
  • You will complete post-placement visit(s) with a social worker, depending on your State’s requirements. In most states, the child must be in your home for at least 6 months before becoming eligible to finalize the adoption.
  • A judge issues a final adoption decree, granting you full legal parental rights.
  • An amended birth certificate will be issued, listing you as the legal parents on your child’s birth certificate. 

These steps ensure that the adoption is permanent and legally binding.

Step 9: Prepare for Parenting & Bring Your Baby Home

As you welcome your new child, focus on:

  • Bonding and attachment (skin-to-skin contact, responding to cries, creating routines, and cocooning).
  • Learning about adoption-related parenting (books, courses, and talking to other adoptive parents).
  • Understanding post-adoption emotions (both yours and your child’s). Adopting newborn babies often brings unique aspects and emotional connections, making the experience profoundly special.

Step 10: Seek Post-Adoption Support

Adoption is a lifelong journey. Many families benefit from:

  • Adoption counselors to help with identity or attachment questions.
  • Adoptive parent support groups for guidance and shared experiences.
  • Legal or educational advocacy if challenges arise in school or medical settings. 

Unexpected Events During the Adoption Process

1. Longer-Than-Expected Wait Times

  • Some adoptive parents are matched quickly, while others may wait months or even years before being selected by an expectant mother.
  • Factors that affect wait time include preferences for the child’s background, openness to different adoption types, and agency waitlists. Additionally, specifying a gender preference, such as a female child, can introduce further challenges and considerations, as many agencies do not allow gender preferences. Even if an agency allows gender preferences, sometimes they cannot guarantee the adoption of a child of a specific gender as the gender may be unknown or different at delivery than anticipated if there was minimal prenatal care.
  • Parents should mentally and emotionally prepare for potential delays in matching.

2. Changes in Birth Parent Plans

  • A birth mother has the legal right to change her mind about placing her child for adoption before signing the relinquishment papers.
  • This can be an emotionally devastating experience for prospective parents, but it’s essential to understand that birthmothers have the right to reconsider.
  • Having a support system and counseling can help cope with the emotional impact if a match falls through.

3. Unexpected Financial Costs

  • While agencies provide estimated costs, unexpected expenses such as travel fees, medical expenses, and legal complexities can arise.
  • If adopting through an agency that covers birth mother expenses, unexpected medical bills may increase the total adoption cost.
  • Parents should have a financial cushion or backup plan to handle unforeseen costs.
  • If adopting from a different state, parents must comply with the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC), which can cause delays in bringing the baby home.
  • Some states have longer revocation periods where birth parents can reclaim their parental rights.
  • Working with an experienced adoption agency or attorney ensures all legal processes are handled correctly.

Unexpected Events After Bringing Your Child Home

5. Post-Adoption Depression (PAD)

  • Many adoptive parents experience post-adoption depression, a condition similar to postpartum depression.
  • Feelings of guilt, sadness, anxiety, or emotional disconnect can emerge, even after a long-awaited adoption.
  • Seeking adoption counseling, therapy, or support groups can help parents navigate these feelings.

6. Difficulty with Attachment and Bonding

  • Babies and adoptive parents may have trouble bonding, especially if they experienced prenatal trauma, drug exposure, or a sudden transition.
  • Some children struggle with eye contact, physical affection, or separation anxiety.
  • Using consistent routines, skin-to-skin contact, cocooning, and responding to needs quickly can strengthen attachment.

7. Health or Developmental Surprises

  • Even with medical records, unexpected health or developmental challenges may arise.
  • Examples include prenatal drug exposure, undiagnosed genetic conditions, speech delays, or sensory issues.
  • Parents should prepare to advocate for their child’s medical and developmental needs by seeking early intervention services as needed.

8. Open Adoption Communication Challenges

  • In open or semi-open adoptions, birth parents may wish to communicate more or less than expected.
  • Setting clear expectations and boundaries early on can help manage relationships, but also being flexible is key! Have an open mind and heart to ongoing communication with the birth family.
  • As the child grows, they may have questions about their birth family—adoptive parents should be ready to facilitate healthy conversations.

9. Identity and Adoption Questions

  • As children get older, they may struggle with questions about their birth family, heritage, or identity.
  • School-age children may ask, “Why was I placed for adoption?” or “Do I look like my birth parents?”
  • Parents should be open, honest, and age-appropriate when discussing adoption to foster a healthy self-identity. Start discussing your child’s adoption story immediately from placement and initiate questions to see if they want to talk about their adoption to let them know you are a safe place and no question is off the table. Introduce more details as age-appropriate.  

Let Texas Adoption Center Help With Your Adoption Journey

Adopting a baby is an emotional, financial, and legal journey, but with preparation and support, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable.

At Texas Adoption Center, we’re here to help guide you through the process with compassionate support and expert guidance.Ready to take the next step? Contact Texas Adoption Center today to begin your adoption journey.