Many areas of life have changed due to the global pandemic. Adoption is no exception. The increased focus on the health and safety of individuals and families has sparked changes in the adoption process for both birth mothers and adoptive parents.
To learn more about adoption during COVID, take a look at the questions and answers below.
Can I still pursue adoption during COVID-19?
In light of new restrictions and lockdowns in many states, many families wonder, “Is adoption during covid possible?” The answer is yes. In fact, domestic adoptions are still moving forward across the country, with adjustments to the process.
The fact is, agencies are finding alternative ways to connect birth mothers with adoptive families to nurture a safe and successful domestic adoption. If you want to expand your family and don’t want to wait, you can do so. Texas Adoption Center will work with you through challenges in the process to facilitate a successful adoption during COVID.
Even amidst a pandemic, birth mothers have the option to place a child for adoption. Whether you are on the fence about adoption or have already decided it is the right path for you, don’t hesitate to speak with the adoption specialists at Texas Adoption Center. We’ll work with you to develop an adoption plan that meets your requirements.
However, the adoption process looks different in light of the global health crisis. Read on to learn how
Adoption During COVID: How the Process Has Changed
Adoption Agency Procedures
Are agencies still open and welcoming new expectant/birth mothers?
At Texas Adoption Center, the answer is yes.
Texas Adoption Center is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist with your adoption. Our compassionate adoption specialists are here to help whenever you are ready to talk about your options for yourself and your pregnancy.
Texas Adoption Center is focusing on safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Our adoption agency staff will be wearing a mask, as well as practicing social distancing and good hand hygiene.
Can I still do an adoption plan if I test positive for COVID-19?
Yes. We can help you create an adoption plan and place your baby with a loving family, even if you and/or your baby test positive for COVID-19. We have many prospective adoptive families ready and waiting to welcome a child into their home. Call or text Texas Adoption Center to learn about your options.
Travel Procedures for Adoptive Parents
Can adoptive parents travel to the hospital in time to take placement of the baby? What if they live out of state?
Good news—adoptive families can travel to Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our agency can provide a letter authorizing essential travel for the adoption. An out of state adoption requires you to remain in Texas for a set amount of days before leaving with your child due to the ICPC process. Here are some tips for safe travels:
- Find an Airbnb, VRBO or a hotel that is regularly sanitized and adheres to COVID-19 guidelines.
- Stock up on groceries and baby supplies ahead of time to avoid taking many trips to the store.
- Follow health and safety guidelines provided by the CDC to minimize your risk of exposure.
- Discuss whether flying or driving will be the best option for the child. Your child’s pediatrician can offer helpful insights during this decision.
Traveling with a newborn can be challenging, and the pandemic adds another layer of stress to the equation. Texas Adoption Center is here to offer support and connect you with resources along the way.
Are adoptive parents allowed to visit at the hospital to bond with the baby and participate in the baby’s care during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The visitation precautions that hospitals have in place differ depending on location. Most hospitals are allowing adoptive parents into the hospital to bond with the baby after delivery, if that is what you choose. In the cases where the hospital is not allowing any visitors, Texas Adoption Center assists in facilitating the transition from hospital to the adoptive parents in the most loving way.
Labor and Delivery Hospital Procedures
During COVID-19, will the hospital make me wear a mask during labor?
Mask policies differ depending on the hospital. Each facility has rules set in place to keep patients and visitors safe during the pandemic. The purpose of these rules is to make your time at the hospital a safe one.
Texas Adoption Center will help you develop an adoption plan, placed in the front of your medical chart at the hospital, detailing your wishes for the adoption. Your adoption specialist will act as an advocate on your behalf to ensure the nurses, doctors, and other hospital staff respect these wishes.
Will the hospital let the adoptive parents into the delivery room during the birth?
Each hospital has different visitation precautions to keep patients safe during COVID-19. These restrictions are evolving as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) updates its recommendations for preventing the spread of the illness. Some delivery facilities are allowing one support person in the labor and delivery room, while others are allowing two. Texas Adoption Center is flexible and will be there with you every step of the way.
Life Looks Different. Adoption Does Too.
Despite the many changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, adoption remains a beautiful option for expectant/birth mothers and families.
Thanks to virtual meeting applications, social distancing guidelines and other contact-minimizing tools, adoption during COVID is possible. We have seen the beauty of adoption bring light to many people’s lives and we remain committed to serving expectant mothers, birth mothers, and adoptive families during these trying times.
If you are interested in placing your child for adoption or simply want to know more about the steps, contact Texas Adoption Center today.
