Although we have no first hand
experience in this area, we understand that adoption agencies are beginning to
require that people who smoke must quit before adopting. Agencies will also
weigh alcohol consumption to be sure that it is not excessive. If you have a
history of drug abuse, you will have to demonstrate strong recovery before you
will be considered.
Infertile couples tend to have
first preference for obvious reasons but, as with all of these issues, that
does not mean that a fertile couple cannot adopt.
The issue of religious choice only
matters if you are dealing with a sectarian adoption agency or if you wish to
adopt from a country that requires a specific religious preference. There are
plenty of non-sectarian agencies and countries where religion is irrelevant to
allow you a good deal of choice.
This is one of those issues that is determined on an agency by agency or country by country
basis (or by birth parent requirement). In the past, childless couples have had
preference but that is not necessarily the case anymore.
However, when you are
evaluating adoption professionals, be sure to find out how your child or
childless status will affect an adoption.
Most adoption agencies and many countries require that at
least one parent spend a specific period of time at home providing full-time
care to their new child. Be sure you understand these requirements ahead of
time so you can determine how you will meet them.
