Finding Family Traditions

If you're currently pregnant but you've decided that adopting your child is the best course of action for you, it's common to go through the adoption process so that you can have your child placed with adoptive parents soon after birth. Even while you're pregnant, you can meet with an adoption agency to specify what type of parents you want to take your child, and you may even wish to meet them. This can lead into you wondering whether you want the adoptive parents present when you give birth. Doing so isn't necessary, but many people in this situation take this approach. Here are some pros and cons about their presence that you may wish to consider.

Pro: It's Nice For Them

The parents who will be adopting your child would likely be honored if you were to ask them to be present for the birth. Adoptive parents are often extremely excited to see their new child for the first time, and the idea of actually seeing the child take his or her first breaths can be something that the parents never forget. This is a significant gift that you can give the parents.

Con: It Might Be Uncomfortable For You

Giving birth is often a joyous time, but if you've already made the decision that you'll be giving the child up for adoption, this entire process can be bittersweet for you. You'll likely face a number of emotions — you might be excited to see the child, given that you've carried him or her for nine months, but you might also be leery about feeling attached, as this will make the adoption process more difficult. It may feel more comfortable to keep the adoptive parents out of the delivery room.

Pro: They Can Provide Support For You

Women give up their children for adoption for many different reasons, including because the father is not in the picture. In this situation, the process of going through labor and giving birth can be very lonely and difficult at a time that you feel vulnerable. Having the adoptive parents in the delivery room with you can help you to feel the support that you aren't getting elsewhere.

Con: They Might Feel Uncomfortable

While you'll encounter some adoptive parents who wish to be present for the child's birth, this isn't always the case. Some people may be uncomfortable being in the room while you're delivering the child, but may be happy to visit the hospital afterward. It's always best to assess your own feelings, talk to the adoptive parents, and come up with a plan that works for everyone. You can visit sites such as http://www.achildsdream.org for more information.