You decided that adoption is the right choice for you and your child. You determined what qualities you want in an adoptive family and may have already selected one if you chose an open adoption.
Now it is time to create your hospital plan.
Many expectant parents have questions on how the adoption process begins once their child is born. The simple answer is that there is no set process defined by the agency. Instead, expectant parents will develop a hospital plan based on their needs and wishes. Think of the hospital plan as a blueprint that your adoption specialist will help you develop and ensure is followed.
Your hospital plan will outline who you would like in the delivery room with you. A Act of Love Adoptions can provide an agency support person if you are interested. You also decide if you would like the birth father, a family member, or a friend in the room with you. Your plan will include how you want to spend time with your baby: will he or she stay in the room with you, or would you like to visit the baby in the nursery? You can also decide if you would like to take photographs of your child. Finally, your hospital plan will outline when you want your adoption specialist to fill out the relinquishment and consent paperwork. Each state has different laws stipulating when the paperwork must be completed, and your adoption specialist will guide you through the laws in your state.
If you chose an open adoption, your hospital plan will also have details regarding the adoptive family’s level of involvement in the birth of your child. You can have the family in the delivery room with you or nearby in the waiting room. You will be able to include if you would like the adoptive family’s input on choosing your child’s name. Finally, you will be able to choose if you want the baby to be discharged with you or the adoptive family.
Your hospital plan can be developed at any stage in your adoption journey and updated if your needs and wishes change. Creating a comprehensive hospital plan will help ensure you are prepared for the experience and make it a positive one for you.