Author: Dr. Verlyn Zuniega Cruz (Specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist – WELLKINS Medical Centre)

While nourishing your baby remains a priority, expectant and breastfeeding mothers can sometimes fast safely with proper guidance. Listening to your body, staying hydrated and following medical advice help support both your health and your baby’s well-being during Ramadan.

Understanding Your Body During Ramadan

Pregnancy and breastfeeding significantly increase the body’s need for energy, nutrients and fluids. During fasting hours, especially in Qatar’s warm climate, these demands can be more challenging to meet. Hormonal changes, increased blood volume and the needs of a growing baby or milk production all place extra strain on the body.

Some women may tolerate fasting well, while others may experience symptoms such as:

• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headaches or difficulty concentrating
• Reduced appetite or nausea
• Decreased milk supply in breastfeeding mothers

These symptoms should not be ignored. They are important signals that the body may not be coping well with fasting. Listening to these cues helps prevent complications such as dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, or excessive fatigue.

When Fasting May Be Possible

After proper medical evaluation, some pregnant or breastfeeding women may be able to fast safely under certain conditions. This is more likely when:

• The pregnancy is low-risk and progressing normally
• The mother is in the second trimester, when nausea and fatigue are often reduced
• The breastfeeding baby is older and also receiving complementary foods
• The mother is able to rest adequately and maintain good nutrition at night

Even in these situations, fasting should be approached with caution. Regular monitoring, flexibility to stop fasting if symptoms arise and clear medical guidance are essential to ensure safety.

Practical Nutrition Tips for Ramadan

Do not skip suhoor: Suhoor plays a crucial role in maintaining energy levels throughout the day. A well balanced meal should include: 

• Complex carbohydrates such as oats, whole wheat bread, or brown rice
• Protein sources like eggs, yogurt, milk, lentils, or beans
• Healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, or olive oil
• Fruits and vegetables for vitamins, minerals and hydration

Focus on hydration

Adequate fluid intake between iftar and suhoor is essential. Aim to:

• Drink small amounts of water regularly rather than all at once
• Include soups, laban and herbal teas
• Limit caffeine, which can increase fluid loss

Plan a balanced iftar

Break the fast gently with dates and water, then allow time before eating a full meal. A healthy iftar should include:

• Vegetables for fiber and digestion
• Lean protein for tissue repair and energy
• Whole grains for sustained fullness Avoid overeating or consuming excessive fried and sugary foods, which can worsen fatigue and indigestion.

Listen to your body

If you feel faint, nauseous, excessively tired, or unwell while fasting, it is important to break the fast and seek medical advice without delay.

Breastfeeding Considerations

Breastfeeding mothers need additional calories and fluids to support milk production. While some women may continue fasting without issues, others may notice changes that require attention, such as:

• Reduced milk supply
• Shorter or less satisfying feeds
• Baby showing signs of dehydration or poor weight gain

Signs to watch for in the baby include fewer wet diapers, persistent crying, or changes in feeding behavior. Ensuring sufficient calorie intake, protein and hydration during non fasting hours is critical. If concerns arise, fasting should be paused and medical advice sought promptly.

The Importance of Medical Guidance

Islam allows pregnant and breastfeeding women to postpone fasting if there is any concern for health, with options to make up fasts later or provide fidya when appropriate. Seeking medical advice before Ramadan helps women:

• Assess whether fasting is safe for their specific situation
• Receive personalized nutrition and hydration guidance
• Understand warning signs that require stopping the fast
• Feel reassured and confident in their decision

Consulting an obstetrician, gynecologist specialist ensures that choices are informed, respectful and aligned with both faith and health.

A Compassionate Approach to Ramadan

Ramadan is a month rooted in mercy, care and reflection. Whether a woman chooses to fast or not during pregnancy or breastfeeding, the most important priority is safeguarding her health and her child’s wellbeing. There is no guilt in choosing what is safest and every journey is unique. With proper medical guidance, mindful nutrition and spiritual balance, mothers in Qatar can experience a peaceful, healthy and fulfilling Ramadan. The team at Wellkins Medical Centre is here to provide compassionate, personalized support throughout pregnancy, breastfeeding and beyond.

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