If you've read over the stories about adoption and checked out the adoption information section, now maybe you're wondering if adoption might be right for you. It can certainly free you from the responsibilities of parenting and save you from the negative impact of abortion, but you've probably still got questions. So here are the ten most asked questions about adoption.

If you are not ready for the responsibilities and commitments of parenting, you can still be a good mom by providing adoptive parents to your baby. Adoption agencies will work with you to select a stable, loving family to care for your baby. After birth, you can see your baby, name your baby, and spend time with your baby. Depending upon the type of adoption you choose, you can even get updates on your child's progress or have ongoing visits throughout your child's life.

Yes. Most agencies have couples from a variety of backgrounds that have been screened for approval. There are also additional options; such as, choosing a friend, an acquaintance, a relative, or someone who has been recommended to you to become the adoptive parents. Your agency will discuss these options with you.

You may have as much contact with your baby at the hospital as you desire. When planning for your child's adoption, you can choose an open adoption plan that allows ongoing visits with your child, or you can choose a less open adoption that keeps you informed about your child's progress through letters and pictures. Adoptive families respect your need to know that your child is loved and happy. If you prefer not to have any ongoing contact with your child and adoptive family, confidential adoption plans are also available.

The timing of your baby's placement with his/her new family depends upon three factors: (1) your preference for the timing of placement, (2) legal aspects of the adoption, which can vary from state to state, and (3) the cooperation of the birthfather.

Many birthmothers want their baby placed with the adoptive family directly from the hospital. Some others prefer to place their baby in temporary care while they consider their adoption decision.

That depends upon what type of adoption plan you choose: open, semi-open, or confidential. Your agency will encourage you to provide your complete medical and social history to your child, no matter what type of adoption plan you make. You may choose to share your identity and where you live with the adoptive family. If you've made an open adoption plan, you can have ongoing, direct contact with your child and the adoptive family.

Both you and the birthfather have rights. If you disagree about adoption or you no longer have a relationship with him, your adoption agency will work with the birthfather and/or the courts to determine if his rights can be terminated.

Hopefully, yes. This will depend on the birthfather's cooperation with you and the staff of your adoption agency. Most birthfathers give their complete medical and social history, recognizing how important it is for the child. At other times, only the information you provide will be available.

The laws in your state determine when and how your child may have access to information in the adoption file. Your caseworker will explain the current laws as they apply to your adoption plan.

Adoptive families approved by your agency must meet standards that are shared with you. Adoption agencies make every attempt to complete a thorough assessment of potential adoptive families. Prior to finalizing the adoption, the agency will make home visits to ensure the child's well-being. In an open adoption, you will see for yourself how much your child is loved.

You do not need an attorney, and there are no costs to you in an adoption. The adoption agency will handle all the legal details for you and the birthfather.

OK. So what's next? Want some more personal information? There are knowledgeable people just a click or phone call away who know the facts about the specific adoption agencies and laws in your own area. It's all confidential and without cost.

So click here to connect to Optionline.org. You can talk with someone by phone or e-mail or be shown where there is a pregnancy center near you where they've helped other girls discuss the possibilities of adoption plans. Knowledge is power, so get the facts first.