READ: Mum posts Facebook status asking for someone to adopt 4-year-old girl

The post, which was shared on a private Facebook group for 4,000 mothers in Iowa, USA, was written by 24-year-old Mallory Donath.

She posted: "I need some help. Does anyone know a family who would like to adopt a four-year-old girl.

“My parents adopted her but got new jobs and they have no time for her.”

She added: “I have three kids of my own and can not handle another.

“Serious inquiries only."

Many commenters quickly offered to adopt the child, with one writing: "I would take a four-year-old. Man this world is nuts.

“But, I would still take one... especially when this kid is obviously in need of someone to love them."

Another added: "I would adopt a four-year-old in need of a family in a heartbeat... anyone know who to contact to do so? Everyone is judging this lady but no one seems to have an answer on helping the child."

A screen grab of the shocking Facebook post has since been shared on American news channel KWWL.com.

Speaking with the news site, Lt. Scott Baxter with the Dubuque Police revealed that they received several calls about the post, and sent an officer out to investigate.

However, when they got there, the woman claimed it was all a misunderstanding.

He said: "She had no intention of selling the child or giving the child away herself, and obviously she wouldn't legally have been able to do that anyway since it wasn't her child.

"She said her intention was to seek assistance from adoptive agencies."

Following the visit from police, Mallory took to Facebook for a second time to try and alleviate fears.

She wrote: "Let me rephrase. I'm not selling a kid, it was to help find adoption ideas. So calling the police to receive suggestions was ridiculous.

"She's safe and fine. So thank you for your help."

A spokeswoman for an adoption agency has since revealed that they have been alerted to the post, and are interested in helping in any way they can.