CDC's Partners for the Prevention of Neural Tube Defects

The “non-contemplators” are harder to reach. These young women are usually 18-24 years of age and are not planning to become pregnant any time soon. Thoughts about getting pregnant are not on their radar screen. They are less open to messages about pregnancy and do not see behaviors that improve pregnancy outcomes as important for them. As half of all pregnancies are not planned, it is important that “non-contemplators” learn the benefit of taking a multivitamin with folic acid every day, regardless of whether they are planning to get pregnant or not. Messages for these women should focus on the idea that adopting this habit today can not only provide general health benefits but also can help prevent a birth defect in a baby they might want to have in the future.

“Contemplators” generally fall in the 18-35 year old range and are planning a pregnancy sometime in the next year or so. These women are likely to consider changing their behaviors to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. These women are open to messages about pregnancy. Yet, most “contemplators” do not know when folic acid is needed to prevent birth defects. So, education about needing to take folic acid before getting pregnant and in the first few months is important.