Key Takeaways You considering adoption for this new baby does NOT make you any less maternal and does not mean you do not love the baby who you are pregnant with or the baby you may have just given birth to. Parenting is not easy, and Open Arms Adoption is here to help you, without pressure or judgement, whatever you ultimately decide. These are difficult conversations to have, but there are ways you can explain adoption to your other kid(s). Also, your Adoption Counselor from Open … [Read more...]

Key Takeaways Most states have laws that require a waiting period between the birth of your baby and the time you can legally consent to adoption. This waiting period is designed to protect you. The waiting period is a time when you cannot sign any permanent paperwork, but it does not mean you must sign when the waiting period is over. You should not sign until and if you feel ready. Nothing is final until you sign the legal consent paperwork and any revocation (time when you can … [Read more...]

Key Takeaways No matter how your family or friends may feel, this is your pregnancy and your baby and your decision. Pressure from family and friends can be really hard to deal with, but talking to them about how you are feeling, the worries and fears you are having about bringing a new baby home is a good place to start. You do not have to allow your family to adopt the baby if that is not what you wish. We are here for you the whole way, no matter whether your decision is to keep … [Read more...]

Key Takeaways When working with a local adoption agency, you will have the opportunity to meet with a LOCAL adoption counselor who can support you through the adoption process, accompany you to prenatal visits, support you in the hospital, and be there to help you when it’s time to go home. With Open Arms, you, the Birth Parent are in the driver’s seat. You get to choose if you prefer an Open Adoption, a Semi-Open Adoption or a Confidential or Closed Adoption. It is so important that … [Read more...]

Key Takeaways This is YOUR plan, and we will move as slowly or as quickly as you would like. You may wonder if this changes after you give birth, and are in the hospital, but this is still your plan, and your decision. An Open Arms Counselor will support you during this time, and will continue to offer you non-biased counseling. No one will push you into choosing adoption if it is not what you feel is ultimately the best choice for you and your baby. If you just need a bit of time … [Read more...]

Key Takeaways Emergency contraception is a backup plan designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. The morning after pill does not terminate a pregnancy that has already occurred, so the morning after pill and the abortion pill are not the same thing. The effectiveness of emergency contraception is highly dependent on how soon it is taken after unprotected sex. Research has shown that there is no noteworthy detriment or risk of … [Read more...]

Key Takeaways It is absolutely free to put your baby up for adoption, and adoption agencies are typically funded by the adoptive families who are hoping to adopt a baby. Adoptive Family fees can often cover things like housing for pregnant women, reimbursement for lost wages during time off for medical leave, medical expenses that are not covered by a Birth Mom's insurance, and items that you may need during your pregnancy. No matter what decision you ultimately make regarding … [Read more...]

Key Takeaways Legally speaking, you will not be subject to repercussions for not receiving prenatal care; however, it is highly recommended for the health and safety of both the mother and growing baby. Although the United States lacks legislation requiring prenatal care, such attention is important for the welfare of both mother and child. There are various options available, such as Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Health Insurance Marketplace. … [Read more...]

If you are considering adoption, there is a question that may already be weighing heavily on your mind: Am I selfish for even thinking about this? Perhaps someone has said something to you, or maybe it is just a voice in your head telling you that a good mother would never consider adoption. You might feel guilty for not being excited about parenting, or ashamed that you are thinking about your own needs and limitations instead of just pushing through. The fear of being judged as selfish can … [Read more...]

Pregnancy can bring many emotions, and for some women, decisions about the future do not come quickly. You may have spent most of your pregnancy hoping to parent, trying to make plans, or simply avoiding the subject altogether because it felt too overwhelming to think about. Then suddenly, the reality of the situation becomes clear. Perhaps you are in your third trimester, preparing for delivery, or even already in the hospital, and you find yourself considering adoption. If this is where you … [Read more...]

One of the difficult questions that you might be asking yourself when faced with a pregnancy that may have been unexpected is whether you will regret a decision to get an abortion. This is a complicated question so it’s important to learn more about abortion and also about other options to make sure you have all the accurate information you need to help you make the right decision for yourself. A new study suggesting most women don't regret abortion You may see several articles on the internet … [Read more...]

Are you considering an out-of-state adoption but unsure where to start? Navigating the process can be complex, with many legal and practical aspects to consider. Questions like "Can I move to another state and give my baby up for adoption without informing anyone?" are common and important questions. Understanding the legal requirements, confidentiality concerns, and seeking local professional guidance can help you make the best decision for you and your baby. This sensitive topic deserves … [Read more...]

Communicating with the adoptive family before and after the placement of your child can be part of your adoption process if open adoption is your wish. Openness can look many different ways. An adoption counselor can help you prepare for and develop an understanding of what type of relationship feels right for you. This blog will provide tips on effectively communicating with the adoptive family before and after placement, covering important aspects such as setting boundaries, discussing … [Read more...]

The decision to place a baby for adoption is profound and deeply personal. For those choosing adoption in New Jersey, understanding the process can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to expect at the hospital if you’re giving your baby up for adoption in New Jersey. Pre-Birth Planning Creating an Adoption Plan Before arriving at the hospital, most birth mothers will have created an adoption plan with the help of a local adoption agency.. … [Read more...]

If you are pregnant and wondering if this unplanned pregnancy is something that you really want, you may be considering your other options and wondering what they are. This pregnancy may be an accident, or perhaps your circumstances have changed over the last few weeks or months, and you no longer feel that a new baby is a good idea. Although you may feel stressed and trapped right now, the good news is, you do have options. Termination may be an idea that you are considering, but if abortion is … [Read more...]