Blog// LGBT Adoptive Parents

Why Choose Domestic Adoption?

The decision whether to adopt domestically or internationally is not an easy one to make, and it depends on a number of factors. The most important thing for a future adoptive parent is to be honest and ask the difficult questions in order to reach the right decision. If you are hoping to adopt a baby, here are some reasons why you should consider a domestic adoption.

Medical history

With domestic adoption, information about the baby, such as that of medical and social history, is shared with the adoptive parents. With international adoptions, it is rare to have access to all or any medical history. In an open domestic adoption, information about family background, education, hobbies, and interest can also be available, which makes it easier for the child to understand his or her birth family background and develop their identity.

Level of openness

In domestic adoptions, it is easier to establish a relationship with birth parents. When it comes to international adoption people might choose it because they don’t want any contact with the birth family. In domestic adoption, you can choose the level of openness and adoption type most suitable for you. Whether you choose open, semi-open, or closed adoption make sure you are completely sure about your decision.

Benefits for the child

When a child knows his or her birth parents, it is much easier for them to understand their family background. Having a positive and open relationship with their birthparents has proven to be extremely beneficial for adopted children.

The process

International adoption involves a waiting list and once you are on the list you have to wait until you get to the very top. Domestic adoption is easier since you create a family profile which is shown to birthmothers until one selects you as the adoptive family for her child. You can increase your chances of getting selected fast by creating a powerful family profile.

Financial reasons

The cost of a domestic adoption compared to an international adoption depends heavily on the particular situation. If adopting domestically, one can expect to spend between $15,000 and $35,000. Internationally, costs vary from country to country but usually range between $15,000 and $50,000.

Travel

International adoption almost always requires you to travel to the child’s place of birth. You are usually required to do this at least one or two times, and the requirements range from a one-week to a four-week stay. There is travel required in a domestic adoption, but it can usually be more easily arranged and costs much less.

An infant adoption

If you are hoping to adopt a newborn or infant, domestic adoption is a usually the better solution. It is possible to adopt an infant through international adoption, but it is much harder and the waiting period is usually quite long. An international adoption is usually a better solution if you hope to adopt a toddler or a school age child.

There are many factors adoptive parents must consider when deciding on adoption. It is important to be honest with yourself and get to know every possible fact about the types of adoption.

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