One of the biggest decisions a birth mother faces in the adoption process is choosing between open vs. closed adoption. This choice impacts the level of communication and connection she may have with her child and the adoptive family. Understanding the differences can help birth mothers make the best decision for their unique situation.

Whether you are facing an unplanned pregnancy or already working with Tapestry Adoption to create an adoption plan, knowing your options is crucial. Adoption in Indiana offers both open adoption and closed adoption, each with its own benefits and considerations.

What Is Open Adoption?

Open adoption allows birth mothers to maintain some level of contact with their child and the adoptive family. The degree of openness varies based on the preferences of both parties. Some birth mothers choose regular visits, while others prefer occasional updates through letters, emails, or photos.

Benefits of Open Adoption:

• Continued Connection: Birth mothers can remain a part of their child’s life in a way that feels right for them.
• Emotional Reassurance: Seeing the child grow up happy and healthy can bring comfort and peace of mind.
• Answering Future Questions: The child can have direct access to their birth mother to understand their background and story.

Considerations of Open Adoption:

• Emotional Challenges: Ongoing contact may bring up emotions that birth mothers need to process over time.
• Boundaries Must Be Established: Both the birth mother and adoptive family need clear expectations for communication.
• Commitment to Communication: Both parties must be willing to maintain the agreed-upon level of contact.

Tapestry Adoption helps birth mothers and adoptive families create a post-adoption agreement to outline communication expectations.

What Is Closed Adoption?

Closed adoption means there is no direct contact between the birth mother and the adoptive family after placement. All identifying information remains confidential, and records are typically sealed.

Benefits of Closed Adoption:

• Privacy and Closure: Some birth mothers prefer not to maintain contact and find peace in a closed adoption.
• Easier Emotional Transition: Without ongoing updates, some women find it easier to move forward after placement.
• Reduced Complexity: A closed adoption eliminates the need to manage ongoing relationships with the adoptive family.

Considerations of Closed Adoption:

• Lack of Future Contact: Birth mothers may not receive updates on their child’s well-being.
• Child May Have Questions Later: As the child grows, they may seek answers about their biological family.
• Possible Regret: Some birth mothers later wish they had chosen open adoption but are unable to change the arrangement.

While closed adoption provides a sense of finality, Tapestry Adoption allows birth mothers to leave future contact options open should they change their minds.

How to Decide Which Type of Adoption Option Is Right for You

Choosing between open vs. closed adoption is a deeply personal decision. It’s important to consider your emotional well-being, comfort level, and future expectations when making this choice.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

1. Do I want to receive updates or have visits with my child?
2. Would ongoing communication help me emotionally, or would it make moving forward more difficult?
3. Am I comfortable setting boundaries with the adoptive family?
4. Do I prefer privacy and a fresh start without future contact?
5. How will my decision impact me in the years ahead?

Consulting with Tapestry Adoption can provide additional clarity. Our adoption agency offers counseling services to help birth mothers explore their feelings and make an informed decision.

Understanding Open Adoption Agreements

For birth mothers considering open adoption, it’s important to know that while most adoptive families honor their agreements, post-adoption contact is not legally enforceable in Indiana. That means that while both parties may agree on a level of communication, the adoptive parents have the final say on whether it continues.

Because of this, it’s important to work with an experienced adoption agency that carefully matches birth mothers with families who share similar values regarding openness.

Support and Resources for Birth Mothers

No matter which path you choose, support is available throughout the adoption process and beyond. Tapestry Adoption provides resources such as:

• Pre- and post-adoption counseling to help you process emotions.
• Support groups where you can connect with other birth mothers.
• Financial assistance for pregnancy-related expenses.
• Legal guidance to ensure you understand your rights.

If you are facing an unwanted pregnancy or crisis pregnancy, speaking with our adoption specialists can help you explore your options and find the best path forward.

Making the Best Choice for Your Future in Choosing Adoption with Tapestry Adoption in Indiana

Deciding between open adoption vs. closed adoption is a deeply personal journey. There is no right or wrong answer—only what feels best for you and your child. Whether you choose to maintain a connection or prefer a more private adoption plan, the most important thing is that your decision aligns with your emotional needs and future goals.

If you need guidance, reach out to Tapestry Adoption in Indiana. We can provide the support and information you need to make a confident and informed choice. You are not alone in this journey—help is available every step of the way.