Overview

As was shown in the video, expectant parents in the past often felt as though they had few options when making decisions about their pregnancies.  While it may feel intimidating to talk with a patient/client about their options, it is best to start with the most basic description of the options.

Here is an example description:

After describing the possible options, professionals can explore further by asking questions like:

▶       “What do you know about your options?”

▶       “What options have you explored?”

▶       “How familiar are you with pregnancy counseling?”

▶       “What do you see yourself doing in the future? How will having this baby change that?”

There are many myths about adoption that can create confusion as women explore adoption as an option.  Professionals can support sharing information about adoption by using the following types of statements and questions:

▶       “Tell me what you know about adoption.”

▶       “Tell me about a personal experience you have had with adoption.”

▶       “Tell me about the adopted persons or adoptive families you know.”

▶       “Tell me about what you have heard about adoption on television or in the movies.”

▶       “How do your friends and family feel about adoption?”

▶       “What do you know about adoption?”