When a birth mother decides to create an adoption plan, she has a lot on her mind. Afterall, an unplanned pregnancy can be a stressful time, turning a mother’s life upside down. So, it is completely understandable to strive for some sort of normalcy. This is why we sometimes hear birth mothers ask whether or not prenatal care is necessary if they are choosing to create an adoption plan.
The answer is ABSOLUTELY!
“Prenatal care in adoption is really important,” writes Megan Cohen.
Prenatal Care Matters
Although “it is not uncommon for birth mothers to receive very little, very late or no prenatal care at all,” according to Megan Kautio, a proper diet, lifestyle choices, and regular visits to the doctor are critical in ensuring the health of both mother and child. “Prenatal care in adoption helps reduce the risk of pregnancy complications,” writes Cohen. Your doctor will “inform you of the steps you can take to protect your health and make sure you have a healthy pregnancy and delivery.”
Still, many birth mothers don’t make prenatal care a priority.
- It’s Too Expensive: The best part of all is that here in Maryland, adoptive families cover ALL medical expenses and hospital costs (House Bill 563, signed into law in 2013). These expenses are non-refundable and regulated by state law and vary from state to state, says Colleen Marea Quinn, Adoptive Families. So, check with your adoption agency or attorney to see what expenses are covered in your state. However, medical costs are only one of the hurdles birth mothers face during an unplanned pregnancy.
- I Don’t Want Anyone to Know: For some, “birth mothers spend the early part of their pregnancy in fear and denial,” says Kautio. “They may not be telling others about the pregnancy and therefore do not begin care until later on when they ultimately begin creating an adoption plan.”The problem is that you can only keep a pregnancy secret for so long, and delaying prenatal care puts both you and your child at greater risk for health complications.
- I Just Don’t Have Time: Many birth mothers, especially single mothers, “are balancing numerous responsibilities with little to no support,” says Kautio. These mothers are stressed out and may be finding it difficult to find the time or resources to get to the doctor. Fortunately, there are ways to fit prenatal care into your life, and choosing adoption can actually make it easier. Your adoption agency and the adoptive parents can help ease some of the burdens. In an open adoption, for example, the adoptive parents “may help arrange the birth mother’s prenatal care, go with her to doctor visits, and be present for the birth,” writes Amy E. Renwick, MD.
Find Support with Adoption Makes Family
The adoption specialists at Adoption Makes Family are here to help you explore your feelings and answer any questions you may have. We serve as more than just a mediator between you and an adoptive family. We are a non-profit (501-C3) licensed adoption agency based in Maryland that aims to foster a genuine connection with you so you feel like you are part of our family. We are here to help you every step of the way. Our experienced professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call Us Now at (410) 683-2100
Adoption Makes Family spends time getting to know you and your family. We will make sure that your baby is placed with an adoptive family with similar values if you choose. You can take comfort in knowing exactly what type of family your baby will be entering.
If you have any questions, you can contact us by phone at 410-683-2100, by e-mail at dr.kirschner@adoptionmakesfamily.org or use our online contact form.