[jenjram]

Hi. I am currently pregnant with our second child and due in July. My husband and I are very interested in starting the adoption process in the next month or two, but I didn't know if there are any restrictions as to being pregnant during the homestudy or having an infant and being able to adopt an infant in Guatemala. Any info you could give me would be great. Thanks.

Jennifer

[Devora]

Jennifer,

It depends on your agency. Some agencies will not process homestudies or applications until a certain time has passed after the birth or adoption of a child. For example, my placement agency puts applications on hold until 6 months after a birth or adoption. The reason is because in their experience of working with families they have found that the transition period for the child and family needs to be able to be focused on for those first 6 months. After that time they're happy to accept or reactivate an application.

This varies from one agency to another. Some have no restrictions at all. However, I personally understand my agency's policy and trust their perspective since they've been working with adoptive families for more than 20 years.

Best wishes,
Devora

[PattyR]

Jennifer,

As Devora said, this varies from agency to agency. So if you and your husband have searched your hearts and know you have the resources, commitment and supports to do this---I say go for it! People have twins or multiples all the time, so you know it can be done. We know it's not easy, but the rewards are great.

Just make sure you do lots of research and check references on any agency you use to save yourself lots of grief further on down the line.

Congratulations on your expected little one and let us know if you decide to move forward with an adoption.