Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may have lots of questions and not know where to turn. Here, our adoption experts share answers to our most commonly asked questions. Don’t forget that we’re here to support you 24/7, whether you’re ready to commit to adoption or not. Get in touch with our caring caseworkers through call or text at 610-613-1911, or email us at info@ababystepadoption.com.

Learning About Your Pregnancy

I think I’m pregnant. What do I do first? 

Start by confirming your pregnancy with an at-home test or a doctor’s visit. When you know that you are pregnant, you can reach out to our case workers to talk about your options. To start the adoption process, we’ll need proof of your pregnancy.

Can I trust a pregnancy test?

At-home pregnancy tests are 99% effective. If you get a positive result, you’re most likely pregnant. False negative results are rare, but can happen when you take a test too early and don’t have enough pregnancy hormone (hGC) for the test to pick up. The best thing to do is visit a doctor and get a blood or urine test if you can.

Should I see a doctor? How much will it cost?

You should see a doctor as soon as you can if you think you’re pregnant or already have a positive pregnancy test. Most doctors recommend having a check up within the first 8 weeks of pregnancy. That usually means within the first month of knowing you’re pregnant or missing your period. You should see a doctor as early as possible to care for you and your baby, and find any potential medical issues.

Doctor’s appointments can cost more or less depending on your medical insurance. We can help you find a doctor and get insurance, no matter where you are. Pennsylvania and some other states are required to cover pregnant women under Medicaid. 

What if I’ve taken drugs during the pregnancy?

Drug use during pregnancy can harm you and your baby, so you should talk to a doctor as soon as possible. If you choose adoption after using drugs during your pregnancy, you don’t need to worry. Many of our pre-approved waiting families are open to adopting babies with drug exposure.

Is it too late to choose adoption?

It’s never too late to consider adoption. We work with everyone, including women who just found out that they’re pregnant and women who have already given birth. We can work with you to place your baby with an adoptive family even up to a year after you give birth. But, the sooner you get in touch with us, the better we can help you. 

Learning About Your Options

I have an unplanned pregnancy. What are my options?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you have lots of options. Many women decide to become parents, while some choose not to continue the pregnancy, or they place their baby for adoption. Your options depend on what you feel is right for you and what access to care you have. Some states have fewer options than others for pregnant women.

Adoption is a great fit for many women. We can help you create an adoption plan at any point during your pregnancy. Our caring case workers will walk you through the process so you can find the best situation for you and your baby.

Raising a family, adoption or abortion: How do I choose the right path for me and who gets to choose?

Your choice is up to you and nobody should force you into a situation you don’t like. Our case workers can walk you through all your options and advise you. We’re here to make sure you find the best plan for you and your baby.

Is adoption the right choice for me?

Only you can answer this question, but our case workers can help you consider your options. We encourage expectant mothers to start by thinking about all available options and ask yourself some questions about your situation. Are you financially prepared to have a baby? Will you be able to care for your baby and work? Are you ready to be a parent for the rest of your life?

Many women who consider adoption aren’t ready for the huge responsibilities of being a parent. Instead, they can help families who are looking to adopt complete families. If you’re not ready to be a parent but want to see your child grow up, adoption can be the right choice for you. Open adoptions let you get to know your baby and their adoptive family.

How does adoption work?

A great thing about adoption is that they all look different. There’s a lot of flexibility and you can make decisions that are best for you. You’re in charge of the process and you get a lot of say in how the process goes. Our case workers are here to support you and advise you throughout the process. You’re in charge, and we’ll help you create the best adoption plan for you.

What does an adoption agency do?

Adoption agencies have lots of jobs. Most agencies will support you throughout your pregnancy and the adoption. They also match you with an adoptive family and show you all your options. Some full-service agencies, like A Baby Step Adoption can also offer support after the birth and give legal counsel. 

Exploring Adoption

Do I have to commit to adoption?

Even if you’re not sure about adoption, our case workers can help you. You don’t have to commit to adoption and you can change your mind at any point in the process. But, it’s best if you wait to commit to matching with a family until you’re sure about adoption.

Can I talk to someone about adoption?

If you have any questions about the adoption process, our case workers are here to help. Just call or text us at 610-613-1911 or email us at info@ababystepadoption.com. We’re available 24/7 to chat or answer any questions you have. 

Can I get financial support for an adoption?

One of the great things about working with ABSA is that we can help you get the financial support you need. Whether you need help with medical expenses or finding a safe place to stay, our case workers can help you receive what you’re legally entitled to. To learn more about how we can help, you should reach out to our case workers who are available 24/7.

What are the advantages of working with an adoption agency?

Adoption agencies are the best way to navigate the adoption process. With the expertise, care, and legal support they provide you’ll have an easier time. Plus, adoption agencies can do the hard parts and help you find a family, get you the care you need, and support you throughout the process.

What is an open adoption? What is a closed adoption?

Open and closed adoptions are two different types of adoptions you can have. See our blog post about types of adoptions for more information.

Do adoption agencies work with LGBTQ+ families?

Working with LBGTQ+ families is up to individual agencies. At ABSA, we’re proud to work with members of the LGBTQ+ community to find situations that work for them. We help with all kinds of adoptions.

Do adoption agencies have waiting families?

At ABSA, we have a wonderful list of pre-approved waiting families for you to look through. Our families are all over the country in all kinds of situations. Some are single parents, while some already have children. We also work with families of all religious backgrounds, ethnicities, and more.  Since all our pre-approved families have been screened, you know that you’re looking at great people to adopt your baby.

Is the adoption process confidential?

The adoption process is confidential and we will keep your information private.

Considering Adoption

How do I get started with the adoption process?

If you’re ready to start the adoption process, you can get in touch with our case workers. If you’re not quite ready to start, but want to learn more we are happy to answer any questions you have. Just call or text us at 610-613-1911 or email us at info@ababystepadoption.com. We’re available to chat 24/7.

How long will the adoption process take?

The length of the adoption process depends on your comfort and your pregnancy. We can move as quickly or slowly as you’re comfortable with, and depending on how far along you are. It takes about 4 months on average to match birth mothers with an adopting family, so keep that general timeline in mind.

Can I meet families before choosing them?

Yes, you can have as much or as little contact as you want with the adoptive family. Many are open to getting to know the birth mothers better during the adoption process. But, if you don’t want to meet families, you don’t have to. It’s whatever you’re comfortable with.

What level of involvement can I or do I have to have with an adoptive family?

You don’t have to be involved with the adoptive family at all unless you want to. Closed adoptions let you stay private if you don’t want any contact with the adoptive family or your baby. But, if you want to get to know the adoptive family, many of our waiting families are eager to meet birth mothers.

What are my legal rights?

ABSA is a legal adoption agency, so we counsel you on your rights. If you work with us, we’ll make sure you know all your rights and provide legal support throughout the process.

Should I expect legal fees?

We do not charge legal fees. It’s part of the adoption service we offer.

Is it too late for me to contact an adoption agency?

It’s never too late to contact an adoption agency. At ABSA, we work with all birth mothers, even up to a year after you give birth. Just get in touch with our case workers to see how we can help you.

Can I choose adoption if I already have children? 

Yes, you can choose adoption even if you already have children. Our case workers can talk you through your options if you don’t know what to do.

What if I’m having second thoughts?

Adoption is a big decision and second thoughts are normal. You can talk to a case worker about how you’re feeling and get advice. We’re always here to help and talk through any doubts you might have.

Choosing an Agency

How do I find the right adoption agency for me?

Finding the best adoption agency is about finding the right fit for you. The best agency is the one that aligns with your preferences, and we give you some tips on our blog.

Do I get to choose the family that adopts my baby?

Yes, we work with birth mothers to help them find the best adopting family. You’ll get to look through our pre-approved waiting families and meet them if you want. We make it easy to find the perfect family for your baby.

What kind of diversity can I expect with ABSA families?

ABSA works with all kinds of families. Our pre-approved waiting families come from all kinds of backgrounds. We work with LGBTQ+ parents, single parents, and parents of all ethnicities. Look through our waiting families to learn more!

Who will I be working with at ABSA?

We provide you with a dedicated case worker who will walk you through the adoption process. They will be your point of contact the whole time and support you throughout your pregnancy and after.

How does ABSA evaluate adopting families?

All of our waiting families are pre-approved. That means that they have all passed a home study. Home studies are the national standard for approving adoptive families, so you know you’re picking from the best.

How many babies does ABSA find homes for each year?

ABSA works with many birth mothers and we place 60-80 babies in loving homes each year.

What sets ABSA apart?

We’re not just an adoption agency. We’re also a legal agency so we can help you navigate all aspects of adoption. With our full-service adoption and our legal expertise, you know you’re in good hands.

Pregnancy and Giving Birth

What should I know about the birth experience and delivery? 

You’re in charge of your hospital and birthing experience, and we can help you plan as part of your adoption plan. Our case workers can help you decide who will be with you and when the adopting family will be involved. We work closely with the hospital to make sure that there is a plan in place that you are comfortable with.

Who will be with me?

You get to decide who is with you in the delivery room. Our case workers can support you if you want, or leave you in the hands of your loved ones. We’re here to provide whatever you need and you’re comfortable with.

What happens to the baby after delivery?

After the birth, you can decide what happens. If you already have an adoption plan and have chosen a family, the adoptive family can take your baby from the hospital. If you don’t have an adoption plan before your baby is born, we can help you find the perfect family.

Whose names go on the birth certificate in an adoption?

As the birth mother, you’ll have the original copy of the birth certificate with your name on it. Once your baby is adopted by the adopting family, they will also get an updated version of the birth certificate with their names on it.

After the Adoption

Will I be able to have a relationship or have contact with my adopted child after placement? 

Yes, if you choose an open adoption. Open adoptions let you have contact with your child and the adopting family. If you choose a closed adoption, you won’t have any contact with the adopting family. You can learn more about different types of adoptions on our blog.

What if I don’t want to keep in touch?

You don’t have to have any contact with your child after the adoption. With a closed adoption, there’s no contact between the birth mother and the adopting family. 

Is there counseling available?

Yes, ABSA is here to support you with whatever you need. We can help you get counseling both during and after your pregnancy.

How long will ABSA support me?

When you work with ABSA, you’re getting lifelong support. We’re here for our birth mothers through pregnancy, delivery, and beyond. We’re always happy to support all of our birth mothers.

What happens after the adoption is done? 

Adoption is a big thing, and we’re ready to support your transition after the adoption process. We provide lifelong support for our birth mothers and we can help you after birth. We want to make sure that you have a positive adoption experience and transition into your next chapter.