A Act of Love Adoptions
birth-mothersJuly 22, 2024· Updated April 2026

The Adoption Process for Birth Mothers: A Step-by-Step Guide

By A Act of Love Adoptions

A counselor and an expectant mother in conversation, talking through the adoption process

If you're pregnant and considering adoption, the process can feel overwhelming before you understand it. In reality, it's just five steps, and we walk with you through every one.

1. Start a Conversation

Call, text, or email any time. Our counselors are available 24/7. Every conversation is confidential, without obligation, and at no cost. You're not committing to anything by reaching out, you're just asking questions.

2. Create Your Adoption Plan

Together, you and your counselor shape a plan. What kind of adoption (open, semi-open, or closed)? What kind of family? Your preferences about the hospital experience. Who will be there with you. How you want to stay in touch after placement, if at all.

Your adoption plan is yours. There's no template and no pressure, and you can change your plan at any time before consent is signed.

3. Choose an Adoptive Family

Browse profiles of home-study-approved families who match the values and life you want for your child. You can meet families, talk with them by phone, or take your time. Your counselor mediates the conversation.

4. Prepare for Placement

As you approach delivery, we help you build your hospital plan, coordinate any medical care, and assign your own independent legal counsel, paid for by the agency, at no cost to you. If you're traveling to Utah from another state, we coordinate through the ICPC.

H.B. 51 (2026)

For out-of-state birth mothers, home-state Medicaid is verified before travel, and return transportation is guaranteed regardless of your decision. You are in charge the entire time.

5. Post-Placement Support

After placement, support doesn't stop. We provide ongoing counseling, birth mother support groups, and the openness plan you chose. Placement is a beginning, not an end.

Your Rights Throughout

  • The right to change your mind before consent is signed
  • The right to independent legal counsel at no cost
  • The right to privacy and confidentiality
  • The right to choose openness level
  • The right, for out-of-state birth mothers, to return-transport of the same mode and quality, regardless of your decision

Questions About Your Situation?

Our counselors are available 24/7, free, confidential, and no obligation.

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