Introduction
A pregnant woman who fasts in the month of Mubarak may endanger the health of her unborn child. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, but pregnant women are forbidden from fasting if it endangers their health, but some Muslim women are healthy who still fast despite the differences. If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor about whether it is safe to fast. Fasting is generally not recommended in high-risk pregnancies.
1.If your doctor allows you to fast, keep some steps in mind
This year, Ramadan is coming at a time that requires you to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, between sunset and sunrise to stay well hydrated.
1. Eat healthy foods. Choose foods that provide quick energy, such as carbohydrates, including whole grains, seeds, potatoes, and sweet potatoes.
2. Eat high fiber foods like pulses, vegetables and dry fruits which will help you avoid constipation.
3. Legumes, nuts and well-cooked meat and eggs will provide enough protein
4. Avoid foods high in sugar because they make you thirsty
5. Avoid high salt foods as they make you hungry
6. Try to rest especially during the hottest parts of the day
7. Try to avoid exercise and any strenuous work during fasting hours
8. If you experience severe nausea, vomiting, fainting or dizziness, consult your doctor immediately.
9. Go to your doctor if your baby is moving less or you are experiencing contractions like pain or bad contractions.
2. Can a pregnant woman fast in Ramadan?
During the month of Ramadan, healthy adults abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset. Instead, you want to fast with your family, but you should not take this step without consulting a doctor. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women can abstain from fasting in Ramadan after the pregnancy ends and if the mother is not breastfeeding her child, she can make up for many of the missed fasts. A pregnant woman who is healthy and able to fast during Ramadan should do so only after consulting an experienced gynecologist.
3. Complications for the pregnant woman
Pregnancy is a time that is often hard on mothers and is associated with many health problems that can include pregnancy complications.
1. Nausea and vomiting
2. High blood pressure
3. Depression
4. Gestational diabetes
5. UTI
6. Anemia
If a woman is suffering from any of these complications, she should avoid fasting at all costs as it may worsen her condition, besides the mother should be extra careful about her diet and nutrition during the third month. This is the time when the baby is gaining weight so it is advisable for the mother to take in enough calories and stay hydrated. If you are a pregnant woman and feel that fasting will be harmful to you and your baby, then it is okay to abstain from fasting. While fasting, you should maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest. If you begin to feel unwell between fasts, you should consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Conclusion
Pregnant women who are considering fasting during Ramadan must prioritize their health and the well-being of their unborn child. While fasting is an important aspect of Ramadan, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before making any decisions. If fasting is permitted, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and ensuring adequate rest are essential steps to support both mother and baby. Pregnant women should avoid fasting if they experience any complications or if their doctor advises against it. Ultimately, the health and safety of both the mother and the baby should come first, and adjustments to fasting practices should be made accordingly.