Many pregnant women often wonder if they can fast during Ramadan, and if fasting while pregnant is safe or if it might have side effects on the mother and baby. Here, we share some tips from pregnancy and childbirth experts to help keep you and your baby safe and healthy during Ramadan.
Can pregnant women fast during Ramadan or not?
Whether a pregnant woman can fast in Ramadan is mostly up to her doctor since they know her and her baby's health best. If your doctor advises you not to fast because it could harm you or your baby, you should follow their instructions.
Generally, pregnant women with health problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney infections, or heart issues should avoid fasting.
Also, Islamic teachings allow pregnant women in poor health to skip fasting in Ramadan and make up the missed days later when they're healthier (this should be confirmed with religious authorities).If your doctor says it’s okay, you can go ahead and fast during Ramadan.
Tips for pregnant women fasting during Ramadan:-
According to women's health experts, there are some basic tips pregnant women should follow when fasting during Ramadan, which are:
- It's very important for a pregnant woman to keep her body hydrated. she should drink plenty of water and fluids between iftar and suhoor.
- Suhoor is the meal that gives your body energy for a full day of fasting, so you must not skip it no matter what. It should be full of energy and nutrients.
- Iftar should be healthy and include all the nutrients your body and baby need. The meal should have protein, fruits, vegetables, fiber, and dates.
- Avoid physical activities as much as possible during fasting that drain your energy and keep you busy.
- You can take some rest and nap during the day while fasting.
- If you feel weak or tired while fasting, you should break your fast.
Health risks a pregnant woman may face when fasting during Ramadan:
Even if you follow all the tips from women's health experts to fast safely, there still might be some risks you face that you should tell your doctor about quickly. They are:-
- Not gaining enough weight, or losing weight noticeably.
- Feeling very thirsty, or peeing less than usual, or dark urine color. These are signs of dehydration, which could make you more likely to get a urinary tract infection or other complications.
- Severe headache and fever symptoms.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- If there's a noticeable change in your baby's movements, like not moving or kicking as much as before you started fasting.
- If you notice pains like contractions or cramps, it could be a sign of early labor.
- Feeling tired, dizzy, faint, and weak even after getting a good rest.
If you face any of these risks while fasting, break your fast immediately and drink water with salt, sugar, or an oral rehydration solution.
In general, OB-GYN experts suggest women should not fast during the first three months of pregnancy or the last three months. Ultimately, follow your own doctor's advice.
