What Is Open Adoption Like? [3 Birth Mother Stories]

If you're exploring your unplanned pregnancy options, you might be trying to picture what your future — and your baby's — might look like.

Open adoption can give your baby a loving, stable home while allowing you to stay connected. You won't have to say "goodbye," just "see you later."

In this article, you’ll learn more about what open adoption is like and how American Adoptions supports you every step of the way. You’ll also read real open adoption birth mother stories that can show what’s possible.

Want to talk to someone who understands what you're going through? Fill out our form or call 1-800-ADOPTION to speak with one of our adoption specialist.

What Is Open Adoption Like for Birth Mothers?

As a birth mom, open adoption can be both emotional and empowering. Some birth moms say this contact helps them grieve and heal. Others say they knew they made the right choice when they saw how well their child was doing.

In an open adoption, you get to choose the adoptive family and can talk with them during your pregnancy. After placement, your relationship can continue based on what you’ve all agreed to.

Here are several ways you can stay in touch:

• Texts

• Emails

• Phone calls

• Video calls

• Photos

• Letters

• Social media updates

• In-person visits

• Milestone events like birthdays and graduation

The type and frequency of communication is usually outlined in a post-adoption contact agreement. It sets expectations for everyone and gives you peace of mind. You’ll know exactly what to expect after placement.

What Does a Relationship With the Adoptive Family Look Like?

You may wonder: Will they keep their promises? Will they include me? With American Adoptions, the answer is yes.

In Pennsylvania, open adoptions are legally enforceable. That means if you and the adoptive parents make a contact agreement, it can be upheld by the court. And because we only work with families who are open to contact, you can be confident that your preferences will be honored.

We help you find hopeful adoptive parents who are ready for an ongoing relationship — not just during the adoption process, but for years after.

Does Open Adoption Mean Co-Parenting?

No, open adoption does not mean co-parenting. Once you consent to adoption, the adoptive parents become your child’s legal guardians. But it doesn’t mean you’re erased from their life. Many birth mothers form strong connections with both their children and their adoptive families.

3 Open Adoption Birth Mother Stories

Hearing open adoption stories from birth mothers can help you see what your own journey could look like.

Lindsey’s Story

Lindsey was already raising a newborn daughter with special needs when she found out she was pregnant again. She wanted to parent her new daughter, but she quickly realized adoption would give her the best future.

At first, open adoption scared her. Would seeing her baby make it harder? But when she met Amber and Eric, everything changed. They welcomed her like family and stayed in close contact during her pregnancy. That bond continued after placement.

Today, Lindsey gets weekly updates and watches her daughters build a bond — even from different homes.

Colleen’s Story

Colleen was 38, working full-time and constantly traveling when she found out she was pregnant. She knew she could parent, but her lifestyle wouldn’t offer the stability she wanted for her baby.

She found the right family through American Adoptions — Lexie and Chris — who happened to live in the same town. Now, they all get together monthly.

Julia’s Story

Julia was in college when she found out she was pregnant. Without support from the baby’s father, she knew parenting wasn’t realistic, but she still wanted to give her daughter a beautiful life.

She found a couple through American Adoptions who had always dreamed of a daughter named Julianna. It felt meant to be.

Julia’s relationship with the adoptive family gave her the strength to move forward. Today, she’s graduated and raising another daughter while still receiving updates on Julianna’s life.

How American Adoptions Supports You in Open Adoption

Birth mother grief in open adoption is hard, but you’ll have reassurance that your child is loved, supported and thriving. That ongoing connection makes all the difference.

You'll also be supported by your adoption agency. At American Adoptions, we:

• Provide 24/7 licensed counseling before, during and after placement

• Help you build a contact agreement that fits your needs

• Only work with adoptive families open to direct contact

• Offer long-term support so you’re never alone

You don’t have to say goodbye to your baby when you choose adoption. You can give them a brighter future — and still be part of it.

Fill out our form or call 1-800-ADOPTION to talk with a specialist today.

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