The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) is advising pregnant women about fasting during Ramadan. Dr Maryam al-Fadalah, family doctor at PHCC, said a pregnant woman who is willing and able to fast, must consult and ask approval from her doctor who will ensure she is not suffering from any diseases that prevent her from fasting.
“Any pregnant woman who suffers from complications during pregnancy must refrain from fasting; otherwise, it might affect not only the mother but also her foetus.”
“In general, a pregnant woman will have an increase in her average daily energy needs that can sometimes reach 20%. Pregnancy is also divided into three different medical stages and each stage answers to specific conditions, symptoms and challenges,” Dr al-Fadalah
explained.
During the first three months of pregnancy, women may suffer from nausea and loss of appetite, and this may lead to weight loss. If the symptoms are not pathological, pregnant women can fast safely, and can take the appropriate treatments after Fotoor and before Suhoor. However, if they experience nausea or vomiting, with fear of eating, those difficulties might affect the mother and the foetus and pregnant women in that situation
should refrain from fasting.
The second stage that coincides with the fourth, fifth and sixth months of pregnancy, is “characterised by dyspepsia, high acidity and fatigue after eating”, Dr al-Fadalah pointed out. “Therefore, fasting during this period is recommended for pregnant women, as long as they split their food into small meals after Fotoor. Any pregnant woman who suffers from complications during this stage of pregnancy such as high blood pressure or heart problem will require an increase in the amount of fluids and foods.
The third and last pregnancy stage is defined by women having difficulties in moving, increase of acidity, stomach pain, swollen feet, and back pain. In those situations, fasting does not cause any problem but pregnant women should always ensure symptoms are balanced and foetal movement is normal. In case the pregnant woman suffers from a disease associated with her pregnancy that affects the health of both the mother and foetus, the doctor will advise against fasting.
She might experience pregnancy anaemia that requires the mother to increase her intake of iron and protein as well as take a compensatory medical treatment. Also, if she has high blood pressure with pregnancy, she will also have to take medical treatment several times throughout the day.
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