At Heimer Law, we work with many adoptive families completing many types of adoption. The most common type of adoption we’re called for is newborn adoption, in which the prospective adoptive parents either arrange with an expectant mom to adopt her child when he or she is born, or adopt an infant who needs a loving home, stable home. For prospective adoptive parents in this type of adoption, one of the big questions is “How can I be sure my adopted child is healthy?”
The simple answer
The simple answer to “How can I be sure my adopted child is healthy?” is the same as the answer to “How can I be sure my biological child is healthy?”: you can’t.
In Arkansas, about 12% of babies are born early, putting them at risk of some health concerns. About 10% have low birthweight. Again, that can cause some health issues. 99.002% Arkansas births are live births. That leaves a .008% chance of a stillbirth. These statistics show that the great majority of Arkansas babies are born safe and healthy. About 3% have birth defects, with congenital heart defects making up the largest percentage of all birth defects. Down syndrome is found in roughly 0.16% of Arkansas births. Other congenital conditions tracked by the Arkansas Department of Health include phenylketonuria (PKU), sickle cell disease, congenital hypothyroidism, and cystic fibrosis, all of which affect very small fractions of births. And there are always conditions that tend to run in families, like asthma and diabetes. Finally, substance abuse during pregnancy can lead to health problems in newborns.
While these congenital anomalies are rare, they do happen. Most can’t be predicted before a baby is born and many don’t make themselves known until later in life.
What can you do?
Expectant mothers need medical care, and they need to take care of themselves. Prospective adoptive parents who have been chosen by an expectant mom can help ensure their child’s health by providing financial support that allows for healthy food, limited stress, and good medical care. Depending on the adoption plan you and the expectant mom work out, you may also be able to check in with her and offer practical or emotional support.
You can also check the health and wellness information about the biological parents.
You can and certainly should find a pediatrician for your child and make sure to keep up the recommended schedule of well child visits.
Babies never come with guarantees, but modern medicine has made good health more reachable than ever for babies and children. We know that the adoption journey can come with all kinds of questions and concerns, and we’re happy to help. Heimer Law specializes in adoptions, and you can call us at (479) 225.9725 to get answers.
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