Continuing the pregnancy and adoption

Choosing adoption means carrying the pregnancy to term and placing the baby with adoptive parents. This is a significant and deeply personal decision that some people make when they feel unable to parent but want to give their child a life with a family who is ready.

You don't have to go through this alone. Talking to people you trust—whether that's family, friends, or a counsellor—can help as you think through what feels right for you.

How adoption works in Singapore

All adoptions in Singapore must go through an agency licensed by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)—private arrangements are not permitted. Here's what the process looks like.

1. Contact a licensed adoption agency

Reaching out to an agency is a first step to express your interest and learn more about the process. They can answer your questions and help you understand what to expect.

Tip: Ask as many questions as you need. The adoption agency is there to support you. If something is unclear or you're unsure about any part of the process, don't hesitate to ask.

2. Attend counselling and information sessions

Once you've connected with an agency, they'll guide you through what to expect. This typically includes:

An explanation of the adoption process, legal steps, and timelines
A discussion of emotional support options available to you
Clarity on the responsibilities of both birth parents and adoptive parents

Adoption is a legal process, and agencies are there to ensure the child's welfare is protected throughout.

Tip: You deserve support too. Adoption agencies can connect you with counselling before and after the birth. You don't have to process this alone.

3. Formally decide to proceed

If you choose to move forward with adoption, you'll need to:

Complete consent forms and other legal documentation
Decide on the type of adoption you'd prefer—open or closed, local or international
Share any preferences you have for the adoptive parents, such as cultural, religious, or other considerations

Your privacy is protected throughout this process, and you can choose to remain anonymous if you wish.

Tip: Your privacy matters. You have the right to remain anonymous if you choose. The agency will respect your wishes around confidentiality.

4. The agency matches your child with adoptive parents

The agency will screen prospective adoptive families, including background checks, home studies, and suitability assessments, to find the right match for your child.

Tip: You can change your mind. Until you sign the final legal consent after birth—and even then, within a statutory period—you are not locked into this decision. Take the time you need.

5. After birth, sign legal consent forms

Once your baby is born, you'll be asked to sign consent forms to proceed with the adoption. This consent is voluntary and can be revoked within a statutory period. The agency will make sure you fully understand the process before signing anything.

Tip: This is your decision. No one else can make this choice for you. Whatever you decide, make sure it's because it feels right to you—not because of pressure from others.

6. Your child is placed with the adoptive family

The child will be placed with the adoptive family, initially under supervision. Social workers provide guidance and support during this transition—to the adoptive parents and, if applicable, to you as well.

7. The adoption is finalised in court

The adoptive parents will apply to legally finalise the adoption. Once approved by the court, the child receives a new legal identity, and parental rights are fully transferred.

Tip: There's no 'right' way to feel. Some birth parents feel a sense of peace with their decision; others experience grief, relief, or a mix of emotions. All of these responses are normal.

Emotional considerations

Choosing adoption can bring up complex emotions—before, during, and after. It's normal to experience:

Grief and loss, even when you feel it's the right choice
Relief that your child will have opportunities you couldn't provide
Uncertainty or second thoughts, which are completely normal
A sense of peace knowing your child is with a loving family

Post-adoption counselling is available and recommended. Many birth parents find it helpful to process their feelings with professional support.

Questions to reflect on

These aren't questions you need to answer right away—they're simply prompts to help you reflect as you consider this path.

•What feels important to me when I think about my child's future?
•Do I have a preference for staying connected with my child as they grow up (open adoption), or would I prefer a closed adoption?
•Are there particular values, cultural practices, or religious beliefs I'd like the adoptive family to share?
•Who in my life can I talk to about this decision? Do I have support around me?
•How do I feel about the idea of another family raising my child? What emotions come up for me?
•What information, if any, would I want my child to have about me one day?

What to do right now

If you're thinking about carrying the pregnancy to term, there are some things you can start doing now to prepare for it. Read here for more information.