Understanding Your Options

As the father of a baby where adoption is being considered as an option by the mother, you have rights. Understanding the different scenarios is important. Below we outline information that will help you understand the roles you can play, and the rights you have.

Your Feelings

She is pregnant with your baby, now what? Shock, anger, confusion, embarrassment, denial, regret, sadness — as the father of the baby, you too are more than likely dealing with all kinds of emotions. It can be difficult to express emotions at a time like this. It’s normal for you to be experiencing these things but it’s important that you talk about your feelings. Find someone you can confide in, reach out to family, friends, the mother if possible. Know that we are here to help you too. Contact one of our supportive adoption counselors by phone or set up a meeting to talk about your situation and your options. We want you to know that you have a voice and you have rights too.

Many men don’t know much about adoption – what it means, how it works, or how they can be involved in decisions such as choosing a family for their baby. Some fear being judged by family, friends, and others for not “living up to their responsibilities” by parenting even if they know adoption may be best. Sometimes men struggle in understanding why the mother of their child is considering adoption. The important thing to remember is that by gathering information you can help to make the best decision for both you and your child. We can even connect you with other fathers that have been in similar situations and have chosen adoption.

Your Rights

As a father you have rights. It is important to learn about your rights in relation to the adoption process. Some fathers are hesitant at first about the adoption process, but then come to the realization that they may not have the time or resources to raise the child. Remember you can choose to be involved in the adoption process.

Your Choices

We understand that your decisions in dealing with an unplanned pregnancy will not be easy. We are not here to sway you in any direction. Our goal is to help you make an educated decision, one that is best for you, your partner, and your baby.

Some of the options the mother of your baby may be considering are listed below, and with each decision you have different roles you can take:

Parenting

  • Single
  • Shared
  • Marriage

Adoption

  • Support her decision and be involved in the process
  • Support her decision but not take an active role
  • Choose not to support her decision and not be involved in adoption plan
  • Choose not to support and attempt to establish parental rights and parent

Abortion

  • This is the mother’s choice.

This decision is one that will affect the rest of your life. Remember that you and your baby’s mother do not have to go through this pregnancy alone. We are here to help provide information and support during your decision making process.

Frequently Asked Questions from fathers

Your Rights about Parenting and Adoption

Want to Learn More?

Testimonials From Women We Have Helped

“Obviously this situation wasn’t one I saw myself being in when I was only 19 years old, but, wishful thinking aside, I was, and it will be something I remember forever. I called various adoption agencies and Adoptions From The Heart seemed a lot more friendly and open and more willing to talk to me even if I hadn’t pledged my loyalty to their services. It helped a lot to know that I didn’t have to take care of everything by myself. I appreciate all the help and guidance you’ve given me and I wish that everyone’s adoption experience could be as comforting as mine was (thanks to you and your staff). The work you do and the effort you put in is fantastic and really admirable. Thank you again for everything.” – Samantha


“I can’t even begin to thank you for everything you have done for me. I could never have done anything without you. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.” – Theriese (letter to an AFTH social worker)


“Thank you so much for everything. You guys are a true blessing to me and my daughter.” – Michelle (Birth mother aided by the donation fund)

1. Contact Us

We know you have questions. Our experienced social workers are standing by to listen to you and inform you about your options. Call, text, submit a form or chat with us 24/7.

2. Talk to a counselor

Our experienced counselors will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and advise you of your options. We will support you all the way through your decision. Once you have made a decision as to what you want to do with your pregnancy, we will give you assistance with your next step.

3. Stay Supported

Support is key. We know from the thousands of people we have helped that no matter which option you choose, you always need support.

If you choose to adoption for your baby

Here are the next steps >>

Pick an adopting family

We have a database of families that have created profiles to show their values, and why they are seeking to adopt a child. You can watch videos, read their bios and decide which family you are most comfortable with and one that fits your goals. We can help you through this process.

Complete your adoption plan

Once you have selected a family, we will help you with the details of the adoption, and how involved you would like to be. We pass no judgment and we are here to support you and achieve your goals.