It’s not too late to place your baby for adoption, even if you’re already at the hospital. Things might feel overwhelming right now, but you still have options.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hospital adoptions in Wisconsin. If you’re ready to start the process, contact us online or call or text 608-821-8221.
You’re in charge of what happens next — you can choose adoptive parents for your baby and decide how involved you’d like to be in your baby’s life after placement. We’ll make sure your wishes are respected throughout every step.
Can I Give My Baby Up for Adoption at the Hospital in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can give your baby up for adoption at the hospital. It’s more common than you think for expectant parents to choose adoption shortly before or after birth. Although you might feel rushed, the truth is that there’s no strict deadline. You can take as much time as you need to decide on adoption.
If you’re thinking about adoption, know that you are in control. You have the right to design an adoption plan that feels right for you and your baby. This decision is entirely yours, and you’re not obligated to finalize anything until you’re ready.
How Can I Tell the Hospital I Don’t Want the Baby?
If you’re considering a hospital adoption in Wisconsin, you might not be sure how to tell the staff. Most hospitals don’t have specific adoption programs in place. The first thing you should do is reach out to us at 608-821-8221. We will help you create an adoption plan.
When you’re ready, let the hospital know that you are working with Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. We’ll be there to ensure your rights are respected and that the adoption is handled according to your wishes.
Our social workers can offer guidance and advocate for you, helping you feel confident in your choice. We’ll coordinate with the hospital staff and make sure your preferences are honored throughout the adoption process.
How Does Giving Up a Baby for Adoption Work?
Here’s a breakdown of how the hospital adoption process works and what each step entails:
Step 1: Decide Whether Adoption Is Right for You
Before making any decisions, take a moment to think about whether adoption feels right for you and your baby. The hospital stay is an emotional experience, and placing your baby for adoption is life-changing. Adoption could provide your child with a bright future if you feel unprepared to raise them, but it’s important to consider how this choice might affect you both in the long term.
Step 2: Create a Hospital Adoption Plan
Once you’re confident in your decision, one of our social workers will help you develop a customized hospital adoption plan. This plan will outline the level of contact you’d like with your child and their adoptive family, the kind of family you envision for your baby and any financial assistance available to you.
Step 3: Choose Your Baby’s Adoptive Family
One of the most important parts of the adoption process is choosing the right adoptive family. Your social worker will present you with profiles of families who match your preferences. You can review their letters, photos and personal details to determine who would be best suited to raise your child. Each family has undergone extensive screening to ensure they can offer a safe, loving environment.
Step 4: Let Us Help You Complete the Legal Steps
When you’re ready, your social worker will reach out to the adoptive family you’ve selected. We will help you file a petition to terminate your parental rights after your baby is born and consent to the adoption in court. Don’t worry — your social worker and an adoption attorney will be there to ensure that the legal steps are smooth and that your rights are protected.
Step 5: Keep in Contact After Placement
Giving your baby up for adoption at the hospital doesn’t have to mean goodbye. Many infant adoptions today are open, meaning you can stay in touch with your baby and their adoptive family. You get to decide how much contact you want and how you’ll communicate, whether it’s through letters, texts or even in-person visits.
If you need some time to heal after placement, that’s okay too. You can reconnect when you’re ready or choose a closed adoption if that feels best.
Can I Get Support With Giving My Baby Up for Adoption After Birth?
We understand the weight of the decision to place your baby for adoption. Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. offers various services to help you through this journey. Our team provides:
Counseling
Guidance with legal documents
Access to resources you may need
Advocacy with hospital staff
And more
We’re here to help you. If you’re ready to take the next step, call or text 608-821-8221 to start the adoption process. Our social workers can come directly to you and make sure you’re fully supported.
