As a birth mother searching for an adoption plan, the strenuous process can cause you to rethink all of your decisions. The biggest question is: can you actually change your mind and scrap the adoption plan? Yes! Basically, it depends on how far into it you are. Here is everything you need to know about whether you can change your mind or if it’s too late.
You can change your mind any time before signing your name on the relinquishment papers
According to Arizona law, you can’t sign the adoption relinquishment papers until 72 hours after the baby’s birth. If you become hesitant during the adoption process, talk to one of our adoption specialists and/or someone close to you. You are not confined by your decision to place your child for adoption. In other words, yes, you can change your mind!
The strain of the adoption plan alongside general life problems can become overwhelming, and we are glad to help you find out what you really want to do.
Once you sign the relinquishment papers, you can’t turn back
If you’re still hesitant before that 72 hours has passed, think about why you decided to choose adoption in the first place. Has that part of your life drastically changed? Are you able to give your child a better life than you could before? If your answer to either of these questions is no, remember why you began searching for an adoption plan in the first place. If your answers are yes, think it through, and make sure you’re 100% confident in your final decision. Once the relinquishment papers have been signed,you cannot change your mind.
If you still want to pursue adoption but are even slightly hesitant, we encourage you to choose an open adoption plan
We understand how difficult it can be to choose adoption for your child, and that’s why we encourage pursuing an open adoption plan. If you’re experiencing doubts about how well you can provide for your child, those probably won’t let up. With life-changing decisions comes indecision, but with an open adoption, you won’t distort your relationship with your child and the adoptive parents. Remember, however, to follow your gut, and if open adoption isn’t a part of that, then it’s not meant to be.
For more adoption resources, visit us at https://www.adoptionchoicesofarizona.org or text us at our Expectant Parent Hotline 1-480-900-5520
