Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and it’s okay to admit you’re unsure of what to do next. This news can impact every part of your life — your finances, relationships and future plans — leaving you with difficult choices to consider.
Adoption is one of your options for an unplanned pregnancy in Wisconsin. This path offers a way to give your baby a life full of love and opportunities. By choosing adoption, you’re making a selfless decision to ensure your child has the future they deserve.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the adoption services available to support you. If you want to learn more about our adoption services for unplanned pregnancies, fill out our online form or call or text 608-821-8221.
Adoption Options for an Unplanned Pregnancy in Wisconsin
Choosing adoption doesn’t mean you’re “giving up” on your baby. Rather, you’re giving them the chance to grow up in a stable, nurturing environment while also ensuring you can build a strong foundation for your future.
“I am proud of myself that I was actually able to do all the things I’ve done since Justin was born,” said Mandy, a birth mother. “In hindsight, I realize that the struggle and self-doubt that came after placing him was important for me to go through because it changed me as a person. I have more confidence in myself now and I know I can do hard things because I already did one of the hardest things in my life.”
6 Adoption Services for an Unplanned Pregnancy
Adoption agencies offer a wide range of services to support you during your pregnancy. Here are six ways Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. can help at no cost to you:
Free Counseling
Deciding what to do about an unplanned pregnancy can bring up a lot of emotions: confusion, fear, guilt and even hope. You don’t have to navigate these feelings alone. We provide free, unbiased counseling to help you process your emotions and make a decision that feels right for you.
Adoption Planning
An adoption plan is your personalized guide to the adoption process. It includes details like the type of family you want for your baby, how much contact you’d like to have and your preferences for the hospital stay. You’re in control of every part of this plan.
Financial Assistance
In Wisconsin, you may be eligible for financial support for certain pregnancy- and adoption-related expenses. This can include help with maternity clothes, medical bills and living expenses like rent. One of our social workers can help determine what support you qualify for.
Family Matching
You can browse waiting families online or work with one of our social workers to find a family that matches your preferences. It can give you peace of mind knowing your baby will grow up in the environment you envision.
Open Adoption Options
Open adoption allows you to maintain a relationship with your child and their adoptive family. This contact often starts before the birth and continues after the placement is finalized. You can keep in touch through letters, social media updates, video calls or even in-person visits.
Legal Support
An adoption attorney will ensure your rights are protected and guide you through the legal process. They’ll be there to answer questions and provide support every step of the way, ensuring you can focus on your well-being.
What Are Other Options for an Unwanted Pregnancy?
In Wisconsin, you have two other options for an unplanned pregnancy: abortion and parenting. Medical and surgical abortions are available up to 20 weeks, but they come with specific requirements. Alternatively, you could choose to parent your child. This can be a fulfilling experience, but it requires significant resources, emotional readiness and a strong support system.
How to Give Baby Up for Adoption After an Unplanned Pregnancy
Once you’re ready to move forward, these five steps can help you start the adoption process:
1. Reach Out to an Adoption Agency in Wisconsin
Start by contacting an agency like Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. One of our social workers can walk you through the process, answer your questions and ensure you have the support you need.
2. Create an Adoption Plan With a Social Worker
This plan will act as a roadmap for your adoption, clearly outlining your preferences. Your social worker will ensure that your needs are met and that everything goes according to your adoption plan.
3. Pick the Perfect Adoptive Family for Your Baby
Think about the kind of life you want for your baby. You might prefer a family who lives in a specific area of Wisconsin, has certain values or shares a similar cultural background.
4. Meet the Adoptive Family (If You Want)
If you’re considering an open adoption, you can meet the family you’ve chosen. This meeting can take place at a location where you feel most comfortable, and you can bring along anyone who supports you, such as your social worker, a close friend or a trusted family member.
5. Give Birth and Complete the Legal Steps
Your hospital stay will follow your adoption plan. If you’ve chosen an open adoption, the adoptive family can be there to support you. When it comes time to complete the legal paperwork, your attorney and social worker will be by your side.
Are you ready to begin the adoption process? Fill out our online contact form or call or text 608-821-8221. One of our social workers can walk you through your adoption options for an unplanned pregnancy in Wisconsin.
