Myth: There are no healthy infants available for adoption in the U.S.

The Truth: There are tens of thousands of families each year that adopt healthy newborn babies through adoption. Many of them are through open adoption, where the biological mother often called the birth mother may have chosen the family herself. Domestic adoption is a very viable option for families who need help building their families.

Myth: It takes years to complete an adoption.

Fact: A recent poll in Adoptive Families Magazine revealed that most families are able to complete their adoption in about a year. In some cases, families should expect to be working on their adoption for one to two years.

Myth: Single people can’t adopt.

Fact: Many singles are building a family through adoption. Choices may be a bit restricted, especially with international adoption’s rules established by each individual country. Singles need to be sure they find an adoption professional who has experience and success with cases such as theirs.

Myth: Birth mothers are typically teens.

Fact: Birth mothers are usually in their twenties, already parenting other children. They are typically single and struggling. They are choosing adoption thoughtfully and because they want a better life for their child. They often will want to play an active role in their adoption plan.

Myth: Infants available for adoption in the U.S. are all drug-exposed.

Fact: Most women considering adoption for their children are not using drugs. Some may, but the majority of them are leading relatively healthy lives and even seeking ongoing prenatal care. They are choosing adoption because they care about their child.

Myth: Telling a child they are adopted should wait till they can understand what adoption is.

Fact: Teaching a child about the special way they came into your family is a process that is best when started at birth. Waiting until they are older can be shocking and unsettling to a child. They may wonder what else you are not telling them and may cause them to feel unnecessary guilt or shame. There are many beautiful, age-appropriate books that can aid families in teaching about this from day one.

Myth: You will have frequent contact with the birth family.

Fact: This is a very common myth about adoption, but the truth is that while in some cases adoptive parents have quite a bit of contact with the birth family, there are some that never have any contact. Every situation is going to be different and it will greatly depend on the preferences of you and the birth family. Some birth families may find it easier not to see the baby, while others may want to meet from time to time. However, do not believe the myth that you will have to have frequent contact with the birth family after the baby has been adopted.

Myth: They may take my baby away.

Fact: Another myth that some people believe to be true is that their baby can be taken away after they have adopted it. This is very rare and not something that you should be worrying about. Usually there is about a 48 hour time period in which the birth parents have a chance to change their minds about the adoption; however, after this time is over there is no turning back as a general rule.

Myth: The birth mother didn’t love her baby.

Fact: When it comes to infant adoption, many people are convinced that the birth mother does not love her baby when she gives it up for adoption. This is a very sad myth, because usually just the opposite is true. Most mothers love their baby very much and it can be difficult for them to make the decision to give their baby up for adoption. If you are planning on infant adoption, be sure that you do not believe this myth and realize how much the birth mother actually cares for her baby by giving it up to have a happy home.

Understanding the real truth behind these myths can be a great help if you are considering infant adoption. Remember, adopting a baby may be one of the most exciting and challenging times in your life. The more you understand about the adoption process, the better equipped you will be to adopt that beautiful baby.