Jul 19, 2023 12:34 PM EDT By David Thompson, UniversityHerald Reporter

Finding your birth parents when you have been adopted can be a challenging and emotional journey, but it is possible. Here are some steps you can take. 

Collect information

Start by gathering as much information as you can about your adoption. Look for documents such as your original birth certificate, adoption records, or any other relevant paperwork. Note down details like your birth date, birthplace, and the names of the adoption agency or social workers involved.

Contact the adoption agency

Contact the agency that facilitated your adoption. They may have non-identifying information about your birth parents, such as their medical history, place of birth, or other background details. In some cases, you might be able to access your original birth records, depending on the laws and policies of the country or state where you were adopted.

Search registries

There are online adoption registries and databases where adoptees, birth parents, and other family members can register in the hope of finding each other. Some popular ones include Adopted.com, Reunion Registry, and International Soundex Reunion Registry (ISRR). Create a profile and search these registries regularly.

Can people finders help?

Public record search websites can help you find your birth parents. Their effectiveness may vary depending on the available information and the specific circumstances of your adoption. 

Enter any known details about your birth parents into the people finder tool, such as their names, last known location, or any other relevant information you may have. 

People finder websites often generate a list of potential matches based on the entered criteria. Review the search results and try to narrow down the list based on factors like age, location, and any additional details you might have about your birth parents.

These sites access various public records, such as birth records, marriage records, or property records, which may provide valuable information about your biological parents. Look for any available records associated with their names or other identifying details.

Get tested

DNA testing services can provide valuable genetic information and help connect you with potential relatives, including biological parents or siblings. By comparing your DNA results with others in their databases, you may find close matches or receive notifications if someone related to you joins the platform.

Search social media

Use Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn to search for people who may be connected to your birth family. Look for adoption support groups, forums, or online communities dedicated to reunion and search efforts. Share your story and ask for advice or guidance from others who have been through a similar process.

Hire a detective

If your search efforts haven't been successful or you need more help, consider hiring a professional or an adoption search agency. Experts have experience in locating people's relatives and navigating complex adoption records.

Be prepared 

It's important to prepare yourself emotionally for the potential outcomes of your search. Reconnecting with birth parents can be a positive, a challenging, or a disappointing experience. Seek support from friends or a therapist who can make it easier for you to cope with the emotional aspects of your heartfelt journey.

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