What Is Open Adoption Like for Birth Mothers? [Real Stories]
You may be wondering, "If I choose adoption, will I ever see my baby again?"
The answer is yes. Open adoption gives you the chance to stay connected with your child after placement, and many birth mothers find comfort and healing through that relationship.
In this article, you’ll hear open adoption stories from birth mothers who’ve been where you are now. You’ll learn about the benefits of open adoption and what options are available if you're not ready for contact yet.
Some of our staff members are birth parents who have personal experiences with open adoption. If you'd like to talk to someone who understands what you're going through, just fill out our form or call 1-800-ADOPTION.
Open Adoption Birth Mother Stories
Sometimes the best way to understand something is to hear from someone who’s lived it. These open adoption stories from birth mothers offer a window into the real emotions that come with choosing open adoption.
While birth mother grief can be part of open adoption, many women say that their connections give them peace and reassurance. Your child is safe, loved and still knows who you are.
Here are three open adoption birth mother stories to show what this journey can look like:
Angelica’s Story
At 20, Angelica already had two boys and was expecting a third child. She loved her daughter but knew she couldn’t give her the stable life she wanted for her. After working with our agency, she found Jenn and Keith — a couple who welcomed open adoption and promised to stay in touch.
“They would never want to keep her from me because they just said I gave them the most precious gift they could ever have,” Angelica says. “I know that she’s going to have the best life… and I know she has two people that she can look up to.”
Caitlin’s Story
Caitlin was already raising her son and planning to go back to school when she became pregnant again. She didn’t know much about adoption and assumed it meant goodbye. But after talking with her adoption specialist, she realized open adoption could be something entirely different.
“I’m like a cheerleader on the sideline,” Caitlin says. “He gets this family who can take care of him and do everything I couldn’t, but he can also know that I didn’t just give him away. I had a purpose for him, and it was meant to be.”
Colleen’s Story
At 38, Colleen found out she was pregnant. Parenting was possible, but her job kept her on the move, and she wanted her baby girl to have more stability. When she found Lexie and Chris’s profile, something clicked. They lived in the same town and already had a young son. They were the perfect fit.
“At least once a month, we all get together," Colleen says about her open adoption. "I’m so grateful that I get to watch Tess grow in this amazing family. It just kind of reassures me every day that I made the best decision.”
What Are the Benefits for Birth Moms in Open Adoption?
So, what will open adoption be like for you in Georgia? You won't have to say goodbye forever. You get to choose the adoptive family, decide how much contact you want and build a lifelong relationship.
Here are a few of the biggest benefits of open adoption:
Open adoption is also great for your baby. They grow up knowing where they came from and feeling loved by both families. And adoptive families value the connection, too — many consider their child’s birth mother a vital part of their story.
What Kind of Contact Can I Have in an Open Adoption?
You can choose what kind of contact feels best to you. Some birth moms want regular updates, while others prefer occasional messages or visits. There’s no right or wrong answer.
Here are some ways you can stay in touch:
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Texts
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Emails
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Phone calls
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Video chats
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Photos and letters
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Social media messages
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In-person visits
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Milestone events like birthdays or graduations
This contact is typically outlined in a post-adoption contact agreement. This agreement is enforceable by law in Georgia, and it helps everyone understand and respect your wishes. Our adoptive families are committed to keeping that connection strong.
What If I’m Not Ready for Open Adoption?
Not everyone is ready for open adoption right away, and that’s okay. You can take your time. If you want, you can start with a semi-open adoption, where we help manage communication between you and the adoptive family.
And if you never feel ready for direct contact, that’s your choice too. We’re here to support you, whether that means helping you write a letter, sharing updates on your behalf or just talking things through.
You Don’t Have to Say Goodbye
Open adoption gives you the chance to remain in your child’s life. You can choose a brighter future for your baby and still be a part of that future, in your own way.
If you’re ready to talk or just want more information, we’re here to help. Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online form to get started.
Disclaimer
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