Adoption Plan in Kansas: What is a Closed Adoption?
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you’ve probably seen the different types of adoption come up in your searches. You may have noticed one particular type, open adoption, seems to be a very popular option. While open adoption is more common, it’s not right for everyone. If you’re new to the wonderful world of adoption and unsure of what adoption type is right for you, we’re here to help. Adoption is a big decision that affects not only you but your baby and the future adoptive parents. It can feel overwhelming but rest assured, you are not alone.
If you’re finding yourself with more questions than answers, Adoption Choices of Kansas is here for you. We work with hundreds of women in Kansas considering adoption every year. Our mission is to make sure you and your baby are taken care of, and a big part of that is providing resources for you to make informed decisions. Our adoption counselors will walk you through the entire adoption process and make sure you understand all of your options.
Choosing the type of adoption that works best for you is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your adoption journey. While open adoption may be the most popular, it’s not suitable for everyone. Everyone is different, and a closed adoption might suit you better, depending on your needs, wants, and situation. So, what is a closed adoption?
What is a Closed Adoption?
In a closed adoption, the birth mother and adoptive parents, and the adoptee have no contact. Identifying information such as full names, phone numbers, and addresses is considered confidential. However, non-identifying information such as medical records and physical appearance may be shared if desired. Generally, files including information about the birth mother are sealed and cannot be opened. When the child is of legal age, they can request the files be opened.
There are many reasons a birth mother may choose a closed adoption–typically, wanting or needing privacy. Some also believe a closed adoption is less complicated and makes it easier to heal and move forward.
Do Closed Adoptions Still Exist?
Yes! Until the early 70s, when new research opened up new opportunities for adoption, closed adoption was the most popular. Although not as popular as it once was, closed adoptions are still an option for women facing unplanned pregnancies. While closed adoption only makes up about 5% of all American adoptions, it is still available for pregnant women needing or wanting privacy and confidentiality in an adoption. If you’re interested in a closed adoption, talk with your adoption caseworker. Some adoption agencies no longer provide the option of closed adoption, butAdoption Choices of Kansas allows you to choose from all three types of adoption. You shouldn’t feel cornered into one kind of adoption, which is why we give you access to information about all of your options.
How Does a Closed Adoption Work?
Your adoption caseworker will help you create an adoption and birth plan. You’ll get access to any resources you need throughout your adoption journey, including financial, medical, and housing assistance. We’ll also work with you to create a birth plan for labor and delivery so you can focus on more important things. Your adoption agency will pick out an adoptive family for you in a closed adoption, but you can always make specific requests. After giving birth, you’ll have the option to spend time with your baby before the hand-over and signing of paperwork. Post-placement, we offer counseling and emotional support to heal and move forward in a healthy and positive way. You will not have contact with the adoptive family, and closed adoptions cannot be reversed once parental rights are signed over.
Is a Closed Adoption in KS Right for You?
Every adoption type has its pros and cons, and what works for one person might not work for another. Not everyone wants to or can have an adoption with open communication. Stigma and misconceptions tend to put closed adoption in a bad light. Adoption has changed a lot in the last few decades, and a closed adoption doesn’t have to be cold and disconnected. No matter your reasons, adoption is a selfless gift and an enormous sacrifice. If you’re still uncertain, Adoption Choices of Kansas experts can answer your unanswered questions and guide you to a path that makes sense for you. It’s important not to let others’ pressure and what is or isn’t popular sway your decisions. Only you know what’s best for you, and that may not lead you down the path most traveled.
Adoption Choices of Kansas serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more!
Call Us 877-903-4488 or Text Us 316-209-2071
Meet the Author: Michelle Brugioni is a practiced, well-versed college-educated writer and avid coffee drinker. She has ten years’ experience as a freelance writer, and has written for an alarmingly wide range of clients and publications. She has written on topics like: life science, biopharmaceutical company acquisitions, dealing with anxiety, and creative drinking games.
As a fearless writer and masterful researcher, each time Michelle is approached with the question, “Can you write this?” she responds confidently with, “When do you need it?”
