You can give your baby up for adoption in Maine at any point—whether you're still pregnant, at the hospital during delivery, or even in the days, weeks, or months after bringing your baby home.

The choice is yours, and with the right support from a licensed adoption agency, you can create an adoption plan that feels right for your situation and receive financial assistance to help with rent, utilities, groceries, and other pregnancy-related expenses.

Schedule a consultation today—because your questions about adoption timing deserve answers from someone who truly understands what you're going through.

Every person's adoption journey looks different, and there's no single "right time" to choose adoption. What matters is that you have accurate information about when you can give a child up for adoption, Maine's specific consent laws, and the comprehensive support available to you throughout the process and beyond.

When Can I Give my Baby Up for Adoption in Maine?

The simple answer: whenever you're ready.

Many women first consider adoption for their baby during pregnancy, giving them time to carefully choose an adoptive family and plan for how the hospital experience will unfold.

Others make this decision at the hospital, working with adoption professionals who coordinate support in real-time during labor and delivery.

And some women don't realize parenting isn't possible for them until days, weeks, or even months after giving birth—and that's completely okay too.

The truth is, adoption is always an option.

Choosing Adoption While You're Still Pregnant

When you choose adoption during pregnancy, you gain valuable time to make thoughtful decisions about your baby's future. This early planning allows you to:

You'll also have the opportunity to create a detailed adoption plan that reflects your preferences—from who you want in the delivery room to what type of contact you'd like after placement.

Planning ahead means your adoption specialist can coordinate with the hospital in advance, ensuring everyone knows your wishes and that you receive the emotional and practical support you need.

Can I Choose Adoption Right from the Hospital?

Yes, you can put your baby up for adoption as soon as they're born, even if you haven't made any prior arrangements.

While the process moves more quickly than if you'd planned during pregnancy, the essential steps remain the same—they just happen on a compressed timeline.

No two adoptions look exactly alike, but here's how giving your baby up for adoption at the hospital typically unfolds:

Call 1-800-ADOPTION for immediate support if you are at the hospital and want to learn more about adoption.

It's Not Too Late: Choosing Adoption After Birth

Sometimes the reality of parenting doesn't match what you anticipated, and that realization might not come until after you've brought your baby home.

If you're feeling overwhelmed in the days, weeks, or months following birth, know that choosing adoption now doesn't mean you've failed—it means you're making a loving decision for both yourself and your child.

When you choose adoption after birth, the process includes:

• Reaching Out for Support – Contact an adoption professional who can explain your options without judgment and answer questions about timing, Maine's laws, and how quickly a match can be made.
• Meeting Pre-Screened Families – Your specialist will share profiles of families who have already completed background checks, home studies, and adoption training.
• Creating a Transition Plan – You'll work together to determine how and when placement will occur, ensuring your baby's transition feels as gentle as possible.
• Finalizing Consent – Under Maine law, parental consent for adoption can be executed after certain waiting periods (detailed below), and you'll have support from your adoption professional and legal counsel throughout.
• Ongoing Connection – Depending on the level of openness you choose, you may exchange photos, letters, or visits with the adoptive family as your child grows.

You'll Never Walk This Path Alone

As a full-service, national adoption agency with decades of experience creating families, American Adoptions provides the comprehensive support you deserve throughout your Maine adoption journey:

Our experience with Maine adoptions means we understand the state's specific laws, how to coordinate with local hospitals, and how to navigate any unique circumstances your situation presents.

Get Clear Answers About Your Maine Adoption Options Today

You don't have to have everything figured out to reach out.

Whether you're still pregnant and exploring your options, at the hospital right now, or already home with your baby, an adoption specialist can answer your questions about timing, Maine's consent laws, financial assistance, and what the process would look like for your specific situation.

The decision about when to give your baby up for adoption in Maine is deeply personal, and there's no wrong time to ask for help. Every conversation is confidential, free, and without judgment. You'll speak with professionals who understand that this choice comes from a place of love and who are committed to supporting you—no matter what you ultimately decide.

Speak with a specialist right now—imagine the relief of finally having answers to the questions keeping you up at night.