I have just learned I am going to have a baby. Who will help me make
a planned decision about what is best for me and my baby?
Many women who have an unplanned pregnancy are unsure where to turn to
for assistance. They often make poor decisions because they do not know
what options are open to them. At Eastern Oklahoma Adoptions, staff will
assist you by providing emotional support and counseling throughout your
pregnancy. The staff will help you feel good about your decision. Our
first priority is to listen to you, answer your questions and help you
with your needs and concerns.
When can I contact you?
Our office is not only open during normal business hours, but we are
also available
to assist you on evenings, weekends and holidays. You will be provided
after hours
numbers to reach staff.
Why should I choose Adoption?
The choice of adoption planning is a positive outcome for an unplanned
pregnancy. An adoption plan can be whatever you want it to be.
Who will help me understand this decision and deal with the loss of
my child?
The decision to make a plan for adoption of your child is not an easy
one to make. Although it may be a difficult and painful process we will
be there to provided support, encouragement and counseling, during the
pregnancy, at the birth of your child, at the time of relinquishing the
baby to it’s new family, and afterward.
Can I be involved in choosing the adoptive family for my child?
Yes, you have the option of assisting in selecting the family who will
be adopting your baby. You can make specific request regarding types of
families, lifestyles, other children, religion, etc.
How will I know the adoptive family will love and protect my child?
All prospective adoptive parents go through and extensive background
check. Social workers meet them in their homes to interview them. The
families are required to provide a State Bureau of Investigation report,
child abuse clearance reports, as well as birth certificates, physicians
reports, and many other documents as part of their application process.
Will I be able to meet the adoptive family in person?
Yes, if you wish they can meet you before the baby is born and you can
have as much or as little of a relationship with the family as you want.
You may exchange phone, numbers, and share other information if you
choose.
You will know as much information as possible about the adoptive family
as we can give you without revealing their last names and addresses.
However, if you prefer to have a closed adoption with the adoptive
family, that is also an option.
Can I make an adoption plan without the Birth father’s Consent?
Yes, if the birth father will not give his consent, or if you are unable
to locate him, the attorney for the agency will attempt to terminate his
parental rights.
I am afraid to tell the birth father, and my parents.
The Eastern Oklahoma Adoptions staff will assist you and be available to
facilitate a time and place for you to discuss your pregnancy and the
plans you are making with these important people in your life.
Can I have contact with my baby while I am in the hospital?
Staff will assist you in making that decision. You may see your baby as
often or as little as you want while in the hospital.
When will the adoptive family take the baby home?
In most situations the adoptive family is at the hospital to take the
baby home when the physician releases him/her from the hospital.
Do I have to go before the judge to give my consent?
The consent for the adoption must be given before the judge. The process
is necessary for the court system to make sure you are not being
pressured into making this decision.
Will I be able to know about my child’s health and well being after
his/her birth?
Ongoing correspondence is an option. The amount of contact will be
agreed upon at the time of the adoption. Oklahoma also has an Adoption
Reunion Registry which you will be eligible to participate in, and
information will be provided to assist you in making those plans.
Will I need an attorney?
We will provide an attorney for you as well as pay his/her fee.
Can the agency help me with living and other expenses?
The agency will assist with court approved living expenses to birth
mothers who need the help.