What's it Like to Give a Child Up for Open Adoption?
Choosing adoption is a deeply personal decision. If you are wondering, what is open adoption like?, you are not alone. Many women in Wisconsin want to know if they can still have a connection with their child.
With open adoption, you can maintain a bond with your child and their adoptive family. You decide how much communication feels right for you. This article explores the emotions of open adoption and the lasting relationships it creates.
What is Open Adoption like?
Choosing adoption takes incredible courage and love. You may experience a mix of emotions, from grief and uncertainty to relief and hope. Many birth mothers in Wisconsin have found comfort in open adoption, knowing their child will grow up in a safe and loving environment while maintaining a connection with them.
Some birth mothers describe a sense of loss initially, but also a deep feeling of reassurance knowing their child is loved. Others say open adoption brought them healing, knowing they could watch their child grow up and be a part of their life in a way that worked for them.
By choosing open adoption, you ensure your child grows up knowing they are loved by both their birth and adoptive families. This connection can bring emotional peace and a sense of fulfillment, helping birth mothers find closure while remaining part of their child’s journey.
You Are Not Alone in This Decision
If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering open adoption, you may feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. Adoption professionals in Wisconsin can provide counseling, emotional support, and financial assistance for expenses like rent, groceries, and medical bills.
Many women hesitate because they worry about judgment or not having support. However, adoption professionals are here to walk with you, offering the reassurance that your choice is respected and your well-being is prioritized.
Remember, the family you choose for your child isn't here to judge you. Many birth mothers and adoptive families form lifelong bonds. They are in this with you, and here to support you, just like us. Whether you need financial assistance, emotional counseling, or simply someone to listen, help is available.
Your Role in the Adoption Journey
You have control over your adoption plan. From choosing the right adoptive family to deciding the level of communication that feels best, every decision is yours. You can review adoptive family profiles, ask questions, and take your time before making a choice. Once you have selected a family, you can begin building a relationship, whether through phone calls, emails, or even in-person meetings.
Not only do you decide who will adopt your child, but you also determine the level of contact you want. Whether it’s regular updates, scheduled visits, or the flexibility to adjust as time goes on, your preferences are always respected. Many birth mothers find peace in knowing they can remain part of their child’s life while allowing them to grow in a loving and stable environment.
Choosing the Right Family
You can personally select the adoptive family that feels right for your child. Meet them, ask questions, and build a relationship before making your decision. Many birth mothers describe this as the most reassuring part of the process, knowing they have found the perfect parents for their child.
Setting Communication Expectations
Open adoption comes in many forms. You can choose:
- Direct contact: Calls, texts, visits
- Semi-open adoption: Letters and updates through an agency
- Future contact flexibility: Start with limited contact and increase when you’re ready
Birth mothers who begin with semi-open adoption often find comfort in seeing their child’s milestones through updates, and later transition into more direct communication when they feel ready.
Support throughout the Process
- Counseling services help you navigate emotions before and after placement.
- Adoption professionals mediate communication and support your needs.
- Peer support groups offer connections with other birth mothers who have been through similar experiences.
Learn More About Financial Assistance
What Open Adoption Can Look Like Over Time
Your relationship with your child and their adoptive family can grow and evolve in ways that feel natural. Many birth mothers maintain close bonds, with regular visits, updates, and video chats. Here’s a look at some of their stories:
Sara’s Open Adoption Story
“It was difficult to leave, but it made it easier knowing I would continue to receive frequent updates, pictures and videos. The plan was to return for his first birthday. I knew I had done what was best for [my baby]. I gave him the best possible future, filled with unconditional love, financial stability, education and so much more! He has a mommy and daddy who love him more than anything. He has so many family members who can’t get enough of him. The love this child will always know is outrageous. He has brought so many people so much joy!” – Sara, a Birth Mother. Read Sara’s full story here.
Lindsey’s Open Adoption Story
“I knew that what I was doing in placing in Charlotte for adoption was 100 percent out of love. I loved her so much that I had to be selfless. It was honestly the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through, emotionally … when I kissed [my baby] — not for the last time but the last time for a while.” – Lindsey, a Birth Mother. Read Lindsey’s full story here.
Julia’s Open Adoption Story
“I knew my life did not stop after adoption. It gave me a second chance to pursue my goals and dreams so that I can be a better version of myself and help people along the way. I wanted to show my daughter that I didn’t give up on myself and, more importantly, her.” – Julia, a Birth Mother. Read Julia’s full story here.
The Child’s Perspective
Growing up with access to their birth mother provides emotional security. They never have to wonder about their origins or why they were placed for adoption. Many children appreciate knowing their birth mother made a loving decision for them.
Children who grow up in open adoptions often express gratitude for having their birth mother in their life. It eliminates uncertainty and helps them understand that their adoption was an act of love.
"I can’t tell you how grateful I am to my birth parents. I received more than just my name and my genes from them. They gave me my family." - Diana, adoptee and writer for American Adoptions. Watch more stories from adoptees here.
Healing and Hope for Birth Mothers
Adoption is a journey, not just a single decision. Many birth mothers find peace through support groups, counseling, and maintaining contact with their child’s adoptive family. Resources like grief counseling and peer support can help you heal and embrace the future with confidence.
Adoption is not the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a new kind of love.
If you need time to heal, that’s okay. Support is available, and there is no pressure. Your decision is yours to make. Some birth mothers find healing through writing letters to their child, journaling their experience, or staying connected with other birth moms who understand their emotions.
You Deserve Support and Understanding
Your choice to pursue open adoption is a brave and loving one. You deserve to feel confident and supported. If you have questions or just need someone to listen, there are caring professionals ready to help—with no pressure and no commitment.
You are not alone, and no matter what decision you make, there are people ready to support and guide you toward a brighter future.
Get Immediate Help Here, or at 1-800-ADOPTIONS
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.
