Ongoing Contact in Adoption

When considering adoption, many expectant mothers wonder what ongoing contact in adoption will look like. If you choose an open adoption or semi-open adoption, you may continue to receive updates, photos, and even have visits with your child. This contact is based on what feels right for you and the family. Understanding how ongoing contact in adoption works can help you feel more confident as you move through the adoption process.  With All About U Adoptions, you will create a plan that reflects your comfort level. 

What Does Ongoing Contact Mean?

Ongoing contact (often referred to as an open adoption) is when birth mothers stay connected with their child and the adoptive family after placement. This can take many forms, depending on your adoption plan. For some, it may be occasional letters and pictures. For others, it may include phone calls, emails, or in-person visits.

Think of it as building a bridge rather than closing a door. The level of contact is something you decide with the adoptive family before the placement. All About U Adoptions will help guide those conversations so that everyone feels supported.

Types of Ongoing Contact

Every adoption journey is unique, and ongoing contact can look different for each family. Below are the most common types of contact in open adoption:

Updates and Photos

Adoptive families often share regular updates and photos. These updates may be sent through email, a private online account, or mailed letters. This option gives you peace of mind, knowing how your child is growing and thriving.

Phone or Video Calls

Some birth mothers choose to have occasional phone calls or video chats. These calls allow you to hear your child’s voice and share meaningful moments from afar.

Visits

For those who feel comfortable, visits can be arranged. These visits may be yearly or more frequent, depending on the agreement. They allow you to experience your child’s life firsthand while continuing to nurture your relationship.

Semi-Open Adoption

In a semi-open adoption, communication often goes through the adoption agency. This can give you more privacy while still receiving updates and staying connected.

How Ongoing Contact Benefits Everyone

Ongoing contact in adoption is designed to meet the needs of the birth mother, adoptive family, and child. Each person gains something valuable.

• For birth mothers: It brings reassurance and comfort, knowing your child is safe and loved.
• For adoptive parents: It helps them answer their child’s questions about their story with honesty and openness.
• For children: It gives them a stronger sense of identity and connection, as they grow up understanding where they came from.

This type of ongoing relationship is built on trust and mutual respect. While every adoption looks different, the common goal is to create a supportive environment for the child.

How to Decide What’s Right for You

The adoption process gives you choices. When you create your adoption plan, you decide the level of contact that feels right. Your adoption professional at All About U Adoptions will help you talk through different options and set clear expectations with the adoptive family.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to receive regular updates and photos?
• Would I be comfortable with visits?
• Do I prefer communication to go through the adoption agency?

There is no “right” answer. What matters most is choosing a plan that makes you feel supported.

Navigating Contact Over Time

It’s important to remember that relationships evolve. What feels comfortable today may change in the future. Some birth mothers begin with photos and updates but later choose to have visits. Others may decide that less contact feels best.

The key is open communication. The adoptive family and adoption agency are there to help maintain balance and respect your wishes. You are not locked into one choice forever, and adjustments can be made if everyone agrees.

Taking the First Step to Placing a Child for Adoption

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and considering adoption, it can feel overwhelming to think about the future. Ongoing contact may bring comfort as you make this decision. Knowing you can remain connected to your child often eases the worries many birth mothers carry.

All About U Adoptions is here to walk with you through every step. From learning about open adoption to creating your personalized adoption plan, you’ll never be alone.

Choosing the Adoption Path That Fits You

Ongoing contact in adoption is about creating meaningful connections that honor your role as a birth mother. It gives you the chance to see your child grow, while also allowing the adoptive family to embrace openness. Whether you choose updates, phone calls, or in-person visits, the choice is yours to make.

If you are thinking about adoption in South Dakota, adoption in North Dakota, or adoption in Nebraska, All About U Adoptions is here to support you. Together, we can create an adoption plan that respects your wishes and provides lifelong love and stability for your child.