There are many decisions to make when it comes to starting or expanding a family, and adoption is one option that many prospective parents consider. Adoption can offer several advantages, especially in a few specific situations. Here are two reasons why adoption might appeal to you.

You Don't Want to Wait for Years to Have a Child 

If you're not in the position to get pregnant or carry a child yourself, adoption can provide an opportunity to become a parent much sooner than you might be able to otherwise. The process of adoption can move relatively quickly, and there are children of all ages available for adoption.

Of course, adopting an older child comes with its own set of challenges and rewards, but it's important to know that it can be a viable option no matter what your timeline looks like.

Adoption agencies will often have a better idea of the children available and the time frame in which they will become available, so working with an agency can help you to better plan your adoption journey.

You may have your heart set on adopting a baby, and while that's certainly possible, it can sometimes take longer to adopt an infant than it would to adopt an older child. Most adoption agencies will likely have a longer waitlist for infant adoptions, so if you're not in a position to wait, you can consider other age groups as well.

In short, don't rule out adoption just because you think it will take too long; there are children of all ages waiting for a forever home.

You Can Shape Your Family Exactly as You Want It

Adoption offers a unique opportunity to design your family exactly as you want it. You can choose the number of children you adopt, their genders, and even their ages. For example, you might want to adopt siblings so they can grow up together, or you might prefer to adopt an older child who might be more independent.

If you're interested in adoption but have concerns about genetic diseases or disorders, know that there are many resources available to help screen for those conditions both before and after adoption. Many adoption agencies will also have information on the child's biological family history that can be shared with you, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not adoption is right for you.

Ultimately, adoption offers a great deal of flexibility in terms of building the family you want. Be sure to consult with an experienced adoption agency to understand the process better. 

Contact a local adoption agency to learn more.