In the event the father of your child is physically or emotionally abusive, the first thing we ask is that you take a moment for yourself and know: You are not alone. Many, many women have come to American Adoptions, reeling from the physical and psychological effects of abuse and pregnant, not knowing where to turn. We like to think they came to the right place. Here at American Adoptions, pregnant women who choose adoption are provided whatever level of counseling and support they feel they require, during their pregnancy and beyond. Our specialists are ready to help you.

A typical pattern of abuse involves the baby’s father threatening the birth mother by making her believe she cannot choose adoption without his consent, which he will vow to not provide, not because he loves the baby and wants to be an active father figure, but because he wants to hurt you. Some pregnant women enter a stage of denial, in which she is convinced that, once the baby is born, the father’s life and ways will be changed, and he will magically transform into the ideal father figure, without counseling. This does not happen. If the father of your child is abusive towards you now, the situation will only worsen as time goes on.

If you are in an abusive relationship speak to your Adoption Specialist. Your specialist will be able to provide you with contacts and resources in your area to help you escape your abusive relationship. She will also be there to support you and the choices you make for you and your baby.