Fasting During Ramadan: Tips and Warnings for a Pregnant Woman
Some pregnant women can safely complete the fast-during Ramadan, while others are unable to complete the fast. The reasons are usually the general health of the pregnant woman, the expected date of birth, and the health of the fetus, in addition to other factors. That is why it is recommended to follow up regularly with the specialist doctor for safe fasting and to avoid endangering the health of the mother.
Is fasting for a pregnant woman safe in Ramadan?
Although there is no conclusive evidence of the harms of Ramadan fasting during pregnancy, most specialists have admitted that fasting during pregnancy is not a good idea. Some studies have shown that children whose mothers fasted during pregnancy are born with slightly lower weights than those whose mothers did not fast during pregnancy, while other studies show no difference. Therefore, the factors affecting the health of the mother and fetus differ according to the health of the mother and fetus, and not as a general rule. Islam also allowed pregnant women to make up for the days of fasting during which they break their fast after giving birth, or by paying a ransom by feeding a poor person for each day they break their fast. However, we have to respect the mother's choices. In the end, this is entirely up to the mother, and she should discuss fasting with her doctor based on her health condition and the results of the periodic follow-up.
Contraindications for pregnant women fasting during Ramadan
- Cases of low fetal weight or a decrease in amniotic fluid in the last three months of pregnancy
- Lack of fluid in the body of pregnant women, especially patients with urinary tract diseases
- Severe hypoglycemia or frequent hypertension, especially for diabetic patients
- Cases with a history of blood clots, anemia, or high blood pressure
- A woman cannot fast while pregnant with twins because it will harm her health.
- Cases of liver failure or patients suffering from kidney and gallbladder disease
Top tips for safe fasting for pregnant women in Ramadan
- Periodic follow-up with the specialist doctor is recommended before starting the month of Ramadan to avoid any possible complications of fasting during pregnancy. such as conducting medical examinations during fasting and continuously monitoring weight, sugar levels and blood pressure.
- Avoid sweets that raise your blood sugar quickly and lead to an energy crash later. In return, replace it with eating a lot of whole grains and foods rich in fiber, such as vegetables, legumes, and dried fruits, in addition to foods full of protein, such as meat, eggs, and nuts.
- Keep calm and avoid nervousness. Changes in eating and drinking times can stress you out, so take it easy and accept help when it comes from your family. Taking a warm bath, listening to the Holy Quran, or doing yoga and meditation sessions during Ramadan can help relieve stress and tension.
- Reduce caffeine and drink more fluids. If you are accustomed to consuming a lot of caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, tea, or soft drinks, you should limit them before fasting to prevent severe headaches. It is also preferable to refrain from consuming caffeine during the fasting period as it is classified among the diuretic drinks that can make you suffer from dehydration, and remember that chocolate and green tea also contain the same percentage of caffeine, which makes them a better alternative than coffee.
- And finally, time management: talk to your employer about how you work during Ramadan, whether by reducing working hours, getting extra breaks, or the possibility of working from home. You can also take time off from work during the fasting period to get more rest. If you are not working, it is preferable to reduce the strenuous activities of housework and avoid lifting heavy things or asking for help from family members.
