Options Information
Modern adoption looks very different than it did a generation ago. Birth mothers choose the adoptive family, choose the level of contact going forward, and often stay in the child's life in some form. There is no single right way to do this.
In an open adoption, the birth family and adoptive family stay in some kind of ongoing contact: letters, photos, occasional visits. Many women say that knowing how their child is doing makes the process bearable. The level of openness is something you and the adoptive family agree on.
Semi-open is the middle path. Updates are exchanged through the adoption agency rather than directly. You may know first names but not last names. This is often a good fit for women who want updates without being part of day-to-day life.
In a closed adoption, identifying information is not exchanged after placement. Closed adoption is less common today than it once was, but it remains an option for women who feel that no contact is what they need.
Adoption in Massachusetts and New Hampshire is handled through licensed agencies that work with birth mothers at no cost. We can connect you with reputable agencies in either state and walk through what each step looks like: selecting a family, the delivery, and the period after.
What to expect
Common questions
No. Licensed adoption agencies in Massachusetts and New Hampshire work with birth mothers at no cost. Many also help cover medical and certain living expenses during pregnancy.
Yes. In modern adoption, the birth mother chooses the adoptive family from profiles provided by the agency. You can decide what matters most to you in their family, values, location, and lifestyle.
Not unless you want to. Most adoptions today are open or semi-open, meaning some level of ongoing contact through letters, photos, or visits. The level of openness is something you and the adoptive family agree on.
Yes. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, a birth mother typically has time after delivery to decide before signing final consent. The exact window depends on the state and the situation. Your agency will explain it clearly.
We can connect you with licensed agencies in Massachusetts and New Hampshire that follow ethical placement standards. We do not work with for-profit brokers.
Reputable adoptive families view birth mothers with deep respect. They understand the gravity of the choice and most are eager to maintain the agreed level of contact.
Visit Us
Each of our centers offers the full set of free services. Choose whichever is closest or easiest to reach. Many of the people we serve travel to us from Southern New Hampshire as well.
107 Merrimack St., Haverhill, MA 01830
124 Ames Street, Lawrence, MA 01844
151 Warren Street, Suite 200, Lowell, MA 01852
Appointments are free and confidential. Use the form below to request a time at the location closest to you, and a team member will confirm. Or call directly for same-day availability.
