Expectant mothers who are unsure about whether they want to raise a child oftentimes may contemplate an adoption plan. In Virginia, the adoption statutes use the term “birth mother” – this term is not intended in any way to be viewed negatively or as derogatory. Expectant mothers – and fathers as well- who contemplate an adoption plan almost always are putting the child’s best interests before all other interests and are to be highly commended. Expectant parents should seek counseling on all of their options before settling on an adoption plan. Once they are settled that placing the child for adoption is the right course of action, then the next step is to review adoptive parent profiles to select an adoptive family that suits. Such guidance and profile review services are offered at no charge with the Adoption & Surrogacy Law Center. Expectant parents with an adoption plan also must consider the level of ongoing contact and openness they may desire with the adoptive family.