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Making an Adoption Plan
An unplanned pregnancy can be a turbulent time in a person's life. You may feel unsure of your options or who you can talk to about the pregnancy. St. Mary's Services' 24 hour, toll-free number ensures someone is always available to help you sort out your feelings while looking at the best plan for you and your child. In making that first phone call, you are under no obligation to work with St. Mary's. Our trained counselors will answer your questions while respecting your confidentiality. When you call St. Mary's, you are immediately connected with a maternity counselor who places you and your needs above everything else. We are here to provide you with reliable and unbiased information on your options and support you in the plan that you decide is best for you.
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St. Mary's counselors meet with you at a time and location that is convenient for your schedule. The first time you contact St. Mary's, a counselor is assigned to work with you throughout your pregnancy. In most cases, your counselor can begin meeting with you within a day or two of your initial call. As you meet with your counselor, together you will explore your options as well as sort through the conflicting emotions of an unplanned pregnancy. St. Mary's primary concern is helping you make a parenting plan that is best for you and your child.
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If adoption is your decision, St. Mary's encourages you to create an adoption plan that is right for you. You choose the adoptive family and have the option of meeting them prior to or after placement. Through exchanging pictures, letters and gifts, you can maintain contact with the adoptive family and child throughout the child's life.
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Birth parents often become overwhelmed with the emotions and hormones surrounding the birth of their baby. Although hospital stays are short, we encourage you to spend time with your baby if you choose. Your counselor will come to the hospital to support you during this difficult time. If adoption is still your plan, we proceed at a pace that is comfortable for you.
Illinois law states that birth parents must wait 72 hours after the baby's birth before signing Final Surrenders. Your counselor will discuss your options for the baby's stay during these three days.
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Although making an adoption plan is a selfless, loving decision, it is also a painful one. Your counselor can meet with you after placement to assist you in the healing process. We also have other birth parents available for you to talk with via phone or through our on-going birth parent support group. St. Mary's Services is always a resource to you regardless of when your adoption occurred.