Are you thinking about giving your baby up for adoption in Pennsylvania?

Maybe this pregnancy wasn’t part of your plan. Many women in your situation have found peace and hope by choosing adoption.

This article will walk you through the full process of putting a newborn up for adoption in Pennsylvania. You’ll learn how adoption works in your state, what help is available to you and how to find the perfect adoptive family.

If you're ready to take the next step, you can get free information online or call 1-800-ADOPTION to speak with an adoption specialist.

How to Give a Baby Up for Adoption in Pennsylvania

The adoption process is designed to put you in control every step of the way. You don’t need to have everything figured out right now — just a willingness to explore your options.

Here’s how to place a baby for adoption:

Step 1: Contact an Adoption Agency

The first step is reaching out to a licensed adoption agency. American Adoptions has over 30 years of experience supporting women through adoption. When you contact us, you’ll get guidance, emotional support and help navigating every part of the process.

Step 2: Create an Adoption Plan

Your adoption specialist will help you create an adoption plan based on your preferences. It will outline:

• The type of family you want for your baby

• How much contact you want before and after placement

• Your preferences for the hospital experience

• And more

Step 3: Choose the Perfect Family for Your Baby

You get to decide who will raise your child. With American Adoptions, you can view profiles of hundreds of waiting families who have been thoroughly screened.

Many women say they felt a special connection or "just knew" when they found the right family. You have the freedom to take your time and choose the future that feels right for your baby.

Browse adoptive family profiles online.

Step 4: Get to Know the Adoptive Family

Today, most adoptions are open. This means you can get to know the adoptive family before placement and stay in touch afterward.

Possible communication methods include:

• Phone or video calls

• Texts, emails or social media

• In-person visits or hospital time together

You’ll never be pushed to connect more than you’re comfortable with.

Step 5: Complete the Legal Steps for Adoption

When it’s time to give birth, you can take confidence knowing your hospital expenses are covered. You adoption specialist will also ensure that labor and delivery is as comfortable as possible.

After birth, and when you're ready, you can sign the adoption paperwork. You must wait at least 72 hours after giving birth to do so. Your attorney and adoption specialist will ensure you understand your rights.

What if My Baby Is Already Born?

Adoption is still an option, even if your baby is already here. You can consider giving your baby up for adoption at the hospital, at home or even after a few months of parenting.

Call 1-800-ADOPTION anytime to get help. We can help you make a last-minute adoption plan or even go to your hospital.

Free Adoption Services You May Not Know About in Pennsylvania

Navigating adoption and pregnancy can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure what kind of help is available. That's why working with a licensed agency like American Adoptions can make such a big difference. We offer a range of services to support you throughout your journey, including:

Remember that putting your baby up for adoption doesn't cost anything. You deserve help during this time — you shouldn't have to worry about extra expenses.

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

You can't be paid for placing your baby for adoption, but you can receive legal financial support. According to Pennsylvania law, adoptive parents can cover:

• Medical and hospital expenses related to pregnancy and birth

• Living expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries and transportation

• Legal services

This financial help allows you to focus on a healthy pregnancy and finding the right family.

Learn more about adoption financial assistance in Pennsylvania.

Is it Wrong to Give My Baby Up for Adoption?

You might be wondering: "Did you regret giving your baby up for adoption?" or "How will I react to giving my baby up for adoption?"

Adoption is not giving up. It’s a decision made with love, strength and your baby’s future in mind. Many adopted children thrive in loving homes, and many women find peace knowing they chose what was best for everyone.

This choice isn’t easy. But it can be one of the most courageous decisions you ever make.

How to Choose an Adoptive Family in Pennsylvania

Choosing adoption for your baby means you’re giving them a bright future full of opportunity. It’s not just about finding a family — it’s about finding the right one.

As you look through family profiles, think about how you'd like your baby to grow up. Here are some adoptive family questions to consider:

• Do they live in Pennsylvania or out of state?

• Do they have children already?

• What are their values, lifestyle and parenting style?

• Are they open to ongoing contact?

Working with American Adoptions gives you access to hundreds of families. Every one of them is prepared for open adoption.

Start browsing waiting family profiles today.

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

Your hospital plan gives you control over your experience. You get to decide:

• Who is with you during labor and delivery

• How much time you spend with your baby

• Who holds the baby first

• When and how the adoptive family is involved

Your adoption specialist will coordinate everything with the hospital staff and ensure your wishes are honored.

What About the Birth Father?

Depending on your situation, you may be worried about what the birth father will say. Pennsylvania law usually requires the father's consent, but exceptions exist. Here's what you should know:

• Unmarried birth fathers must register with Oregon’s putative father registry to have legal rights.

• Adoption may still proceed if the father is unknown, unresponsive or cannot be located.

Your adoption specialist and attorney can provide personalized guidance based on your circumstances. 

Learn more about birth father rights in adoption in Pennsylvania.

More Pennsylvania Adoption Laws You’ll Need to Know About

Here are a few important adoption laws to be aware of in Pennsylvania:

• You can’t legally consent to adoption until 72 hours after birth.

• Consent must be witnessed by two adults or acknowledged before a notary.

• A hearing to confirm the adoption will be held within 10 days.

• A parent under 18 does not need their guardian’s consent to place a baby for adoption.

Your attorney and adoption specialist will explain each step and ensure you understand your rights.

Ongoing Support After Giving Baby Up for Adoption

Adoption support doesn’t stop after placement. American Adoptions offers:

• Post-placement counseling to help you process your emotions and heal

• Open adoption support so you can stay connected with your child and their adoptive family

• Continued financial assistance if approved by the court

Your specialist will always be available to you, no matter how long it’s been.

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

Adoption is a personal decision. Only you can decide if it's the right path forward after an unplanned pregnancy.

 

If you're ready to take the next step or just want someone to talk to, fill out our form or call 1-800-ADOPTION. We’re here for you 24/7.

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