What's it Like to Give a Child Up for Open Adoption?
Open adoption is one of the most important and empowering choices you can make during your pregnancy journey. It puts you in control — of your baby’s future, your adoption plan, and how much contact you want to maintain after placement.
When you understand what open adoption is like, you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Whether you're still considering your options or ready to start creating your plan, we're here to help.
What’s it Like to Give a Child Up for Open Adoption?
You may have heard the phrase “giving a child up for adoption,” but let’s be clear — you’re not “giving up.” You’re making one of the most selfless, loving, and brave decisions a parent can make.
When you choose adoption, you are fully in charge. You choose the adoptive family, the level of contact, and the kind of future you envision for your child. Open adoption is one of those powerful choices — and for many women, it offers the connection and reassurance they need to move forward with confidence.
So, what is open adoption like? It’s a relationship built on respect, love, and communication — between you, your child, and the adoptive family.
Here’s what open adoption can look like in Michigan:
Open Adoption Stories from Birth Mothers
Hearing from us about open adoption is one thing. Hear from other women who have benefited from choosing open adoption is another.
Here are just a few open adoption birth mother stories that highlight the beauty and depth of these relationships:
“I was already a single mom with limited resources. I kept going back and forth on adoption the whole pregnancy. It wasn't until the last month and a half before I got serious. I think in the end I just had to do what I knew was best for my son and I strongly believed adoption was in his best interest. I don't regret it but that doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. I was lucky and have had a good relationship with his (adoptive) mom. I'd probably be a mess if I didn't have her updating me over the course of my son's life. It meant a lot to know he's happy.”
“Even though I thought I wanted closed adoption, I’m so grateful to the adoptive family and adoption agency for pushing for an open adoption. It helped me heal. Seeing him in pictures, videos, FaceTimes, and in person is the absolute best thing in the world. Seeing him and my second born play together brings me such happiness.”
What is Open Adoption Like?
Open adoption is about building a relationship with your child and the adoptive family that continues even after placement is complete — if you want that. Choosing open adoption means:
- Your child will be able to understand their background and history and can come to you to ask any questions.
- You may have better peace of mind once you see how they’re doing.
- Receiving pictures and letters from the adoptive family will allow you to watch your child grow and thrive in their new environment.
- If there’s ever an emergency, you can provide potentially life-saving medical history information.
- By sharing your history, your child won’t have to struggle to open their adoption records, which can be difficult depending on which state they’re in.
Choosing an open adoption means that you’ll be able to talk to your child and even see them in person. As long as you and the adoptive family agree on the amount of contact, you can see each other as often as you would like. You can stay connected through:
- Emails and texts
- Phone calls and video chats
- Photos and updates
- In-person visits
- Whatever you are most comfortable with
And you don’t have to do it alone. We’ll help you:
Our adoption specialists in Michigan are always available to guide you, answer questions, and help you build the right plan for you.
Birth Moms and Open Adoption: What if I’m Not Ready?
Even if open adoption sounds good in theory, you may not feel ready for that kind of connection — and that’s okay.
If you need time, you can start with:
- Semi-open adoption. We’ll handle communication between you and the family until you're ready for direct contact.
- Later contact. You can always reach out months or years later — on your terms.
No matter what, your comfort is our top priority. And no matter how much contact you want, you are still a loving, courageous birth mom.
Contact Us Today
Every adoption journey is different — and we’re here to help you find your path.
Whether you want a close relationship with your child or prefer updates from a distance, you can build the future that feels right for you.
Schedule a consultation to speak with one of our adoption specialists today to learn more about your options with open adoption.
What’s it Like to Give a Child Up for Open Adoption? [FAQ]
How to give a baby up for adoption in Michigan?
To place a baby for adoption in Michigan, follow these steps:
- Contact a licensed agency like American Adoptions.
- Create a personalized adoption plan.
- Choose the adoptive family.
- Decide on the level of openness (open, semi-open, closed).
- Work with a social worker or counselor for support.
- Legally consent to the adoption after the baby is born.
You can learn more about the Michigan adoption process here.
What are the disadvantages of open adoption?
Open adoption isn’t the right choice for everyone. Some potential drawbacks may include:
- Emotional challenges around ongoing contact
- Changes in the level of openness over time
- Managing expectations between birth and adoptive families
However, with the right support system, many of these challenges can be addressed early on.
What are the benefits of an open adoption?
Some of the most meaningful benefits include:
- Continued relationship with your child
- Peace of mind in seeing your child grow up loved
- A sense of empowerment and control
- The ability to answer your child’s future questions directly
These benefits apply to both birth moms and open adoption birth fathers, creating a more connected and transparent family dynamic.
What are the cons of putting a child up for adoption?
Although adoption is a positive choice for many, it’s not without its emotional weight:
- Grief and loss can follow placement
- Not everyone will understand your decision
- There may be periods of doubt or regret
That’s why working with an agency that provides 24/7 counseling and long-term support is so important.
Disclaimer
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