If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy in Ohio, you might be feeling overwhelmed by all the decisions ahead of you. One of those decisions may be whether to place your baby for adoption—and if so, how to do it the right way.

First, know this: Giving your baby up for adoption is not giving up. It’s a loving, thoughtful decision made by parents who want the best for their child, even when they can’t provide it themselves at this moment.

With support from American Adoptions, you can create a custom plan for your situation—on your timeline, and with the emotional and financial support you deserve.

Get free adoption information today to speak with a caring specialist.

How to Give Your Baby Up for Adoption in Ohio

Adoption in Ohio is a clear and compassionate process designed to support you, step by step. Here’s what that looks like:

Step 1: Reach Out to an Adoption Specialist
You can speak with someone 24/7—whether you’re looking for answers or ready to begin.

• Call: 1-800-ADOPTION
• Text: Click here to text with us
• Online: Complete this form

Step 2: Meet Your Birth Parent Specialist
You’ll work one-on-one with an American Adoptions specialist who will help you understand your rights, walk you through your choices, and support you emotionally and practically.

Step 3: Create Your Personal Adoption Plan
You’ll decide who adopts your baby, how the hospital experience goes, and whether you’d like an open, semi-open, or closed adoption.

Browse adoptive family profiles now to see what kind of life you want for your baby.

Step 4: Receive Support During Pregnancy
Adoption is always free for you. You may receive financial assistance for things like rent, food, medical care, and transportation.

Step 5: Complete the Hospital Stay and Placement
You’ll follow the hospital plan you created in advance, with your adoption specialist by your side. Legal consent to adoption is signed after the baby is born and only when you’re ready.

Step 6: Continue Receiving Support After Placement
After the adoption is complete, you can continue getting counseling and support—and maintain a relationship with the adoptive family, if you choose.

This process is all about you—your values, your goals, and your comfort.

Can I Still Choose Adoption if My Baby is Already Born?

Yes. Adoption in Ohio is still possible after your baby is born, whether you’re still in the hospital or have already brought your child home.

Here’s how the process works after birth:

Step 1: Speak with an adoption specialist about your current situation.
Step 2: Create a custom adoption plan.
Step 3: Choose an adoptive family you feel good about.
Step 4: Work with a legal professional to complete consent paperwork.
Step 5: Place your baby with the adoptive family, with continued support for you afterward.

No matter when you choose adoption, it’s never too late to make a loving and permanent plan for your baby’s future.

Free Adoption Services You May Not Know About in Ohio

When you choose adoption, you’ll never pay for any part of the process. In fact, you'll receive a full set of services to support your well-being, including:

• 24/7 emotional support
• Licensed legal representation
• Assistance with medical expenses
• Housing and living support (as allowed by Ohio law)
• Counseling before and after adoption

Your comfort, health, and peace of mind are our priority.

Do You Get Paid for Giving Your Baby Up for Adoption in Ohio?

While it’s illegal to receive money in exchange for placing a child, financial assistance is available to help with your living and medical expenses during your pregnancy.

Ohio law allows for coverage of:

• Rent and utilities
• Maternity clothing
• Transportation
• Groceries
• Medical care not covered by insurance

Your adoption specialist will help you access this support legally and safely.

Is it Wrong to Put My Baby Up for Adoption?

Not at all. Making an adoption plan is a deeply personal, responsible decision made by people who care deeply for their child.

You may feel guilt, doubt, or sadness—that’s completely normal. But adoption is not wrong. It’s an act of love that prioritizes your baby’s future, even when it’s hard.

If you’re asking yourself, “Is adoption the right decision for me?” we’re here to help you explore that with honesty and compassion.

How to Choose an Adoptive Family in Ohio

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the adoptive family. You’ll get to view video and print profiles of waiting families across Ohio and the U.S.

You can select a family based on:

• Whether they live locally or out of state
• Parenting style and lifestyle
• Religion or culture
• Whether or not they already have children
• The level of openness they’re comfortable with

You’ll even have the chance to speak with them and build a relationship if you’d like.

Adoption at the Hospital: How Do You Make a Hospital Plan?

When it’s time to deliver your baby, your hospital plan will guide the experience so that you feel as prepared and supported as possible.

You’ll decide:

• Who you want in the delivery room
• Whether you want to hold or feed your baby
• When and how the adoptive family will be involved
• If you'd like photos or keepsakes
• How you want to say goodbye

Your adoption specialist will coordinate with hospital staff to make sure your wishes are followed.

What About the Birth Father?

Whether the birth father is supportive, uninvolved, or unknown, your adoption plan can still move forward.

Ohio’s laws regarding birth father rights can vary depending on the situation, but your specialist and legal team will guide you through every step. You will never have to face this part alone.

More Ohio Adoption Laws You’ll Need to Know About

Here are a few things to keep in mind about the legal process:

• In Ohio, you must wait at least 72 hours after the baby is born before signing consent.
• Consent must be given voluntarily, in writing, and witnessed by a qualified official.
• Once given, consent may become permanent—your legal representative will explain everything in full.

You’ll be provided with a licensed adoption attorney at no cost to ensure your rights are protected.

Ongoing Support After Giving Baby Up for Adoption

Your journey doesn’t end with placement. We offer continued support to help you process your emotions and move forward in a healthy, supported way.

Post-adoption services include:

• Free professional counseling
• Help staying in touch with the adoptive family (if desired)
• Referrals to community resources and support groups

You are not alone after adoption. We’ll continue to be here for you as long as you need us.

Is Giving My Baby Up for Adoption in Ohio Right for Me?

Only you can make this decision. But you don’t have to make it without help.

You may be ready for adoption if:

• You’re not in a place where you can raise a child
• You want to give your baby a life full of love and opportunity
• You need financial, emotional, or housing support
• You want a permanent, stable solution

Your reasons are valid, and your story matters.

 

Contact Us Now

Whether you're early in your pregnancy or already parenting a newborn, you have options—and we’re here to help you explore them.

American Adoptions has helped thousands of women create loving adoption plans—and we can help you, too.

Get free adoption information now to begin your journey today.

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