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Open Adoption Explained: What It Means for You and Your Child

  • AdoptInter
  • 6 minutes ago
  • 3 min read
A baby’s feet framed by hands held in a heart shape

An open adoption means there is some level of ongoing contact or information sharing between you and the adoptive family after your child is placed with them. This can include photos, updates, video or phone calls, or visits, depending on what is agreed. You can have input into who your child is placed with and get to know the prospective adoptive parents before the birth if you wish.


If you are considering adoption, this guide explains what open adoption is, how it works in practice, and how it differs from a closed adoption.



1) What is open adoption?

Open adoption is an arrangement where there is ongoing contact or information sharing between you, your child, and the adoptive family after placement. The level of openness can vary significantly, and it is shaped by what feels appropriate for everyone involved.


In practice, open adoption may include:


  • Regular written updates and photos

  • Communication through an agency or trusted intermediary

  • Direct contact, such as phone calls, video calls, or occasional visits


In many open adoptions, you can have input into which family feels like the right fit for your child, and you may be shown profiles of approved adoptive families who have been assessed and are waiting to adopt. Some women also choose to meet or communicate with prospective adoptive parents before birth, while others prefer to make that decision based on profiles alone.


Every open adoption is unique. The level of contact is shaped by the needs, preferences, and circumstances of everyone involved, with the child's well-being remaining the central focus. What matters most is that expectations are discussed openly and the level of contact feels appropriate and manageable for everyone involved.


2) What open adoption means in real life

An open adoption creates the opportunity for ongoing contact and connection between you, your child, and the adoptive family. Research into open adoption suggests it can have emotional benefits for both birth mothers and children when the arrangement is stable and clearly understood. For children, having access to information about their origins can support identity development and reduce uncertainty over time. It can also help adoptees to have information about their family medical history. For birth mothers, an open adoption may ease long-term uncertainty and provide reassurance about their child’s well-being.


The level of openness is not necessarily fixed for life. As circumstances change, communication may evolve over time in ways that continue to support the child and everyone involved. Establishing clear expectations early on, while remaining open to future adjustments, can help build a positive long-term relationship.



3) Open vs closed adoption explained

Open vs closed adoption describes the level of contact and connection that continues after adoption. In an open adoption, there is some form of ongoing communication or information sharing, while in a closed adoption, there is typically no direct contact, and identifying details are not shared.


Open adoption allows a child to maintain some level of connection with their birth family in a way that supports their well-being. Closed adoption gives a woman confidentiality, which some birth mothers feel is more manageable. The right level of openness depends on your circumstances, your preferences, and what is considered to be in the best interests of your child.


If you are considering adoption, speaking with an adoption advisor at Adopt International can help you explore what different arrangements might look like in real life, at your own pace and without pressure



Adopt International is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting expectant mothers throughout every step of the adoption journey. We provide compassionate guidance, reliable resources, and personalized support so every decision is informed and made with care.


 
 
 

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