Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Fasting in Ramadan FAQ — Al-Ihsan Foundation Australia

Q: What if missed fasts have accumulated over many years?

If a woman has missed many fasts over several years due to repeated pregnancy and breastfeeding , and she is currently unable to make up the fasts due to health or capacity Then: She may feed one poor person for each missed day Qada is not required, unless she later becomes able to fast To get a correct ruling: First , consult a trusted, qualified Islamic scholar, or shaykh, for guidance specific to your circumstances Islam does not burden a person beyond their ability.

Question 1

What if missed fasts have accumulated over many years?

Accepted Answer

If a woman has missed many fasts over several years due to repeated pregnancy and breastfeeding, and she is currently unable to make up the fasts due to health or capacity

Then:

She may feed one poor person for each missed day
Qada is not required, unless she later becomes able to fast

To get a correct ruling:

First, consult a trusted, qualified Islamic scholar, or shaykh, for guidance specific to your circumstances

Islam does not burden a person beyond their ability.

Question 2

What is required if the fast is broken?

Accepted Answer

1. If she fears harm to her own health

She may break the fast, and the obligation is:

Qada – making up the missed days after Ramadan

2. If she fears harm to her child

She may also break the fast.

All scholars agree that Qada (making up the days) after Ramadan is required
Some scholars additionally held that feeding one poor person per missed day is also required.

Many scholars advise:

Making up the missed fasts after Ramadan only

Question 3

When is it permitted to break the fast?

Accepted Answer

A pregnant or breastfeeding woman may break her fast if she reasonably fears harm, either:

To her own health, or
To her child’s health or wellbeing

This fear may be based on:

Personal experience
Medical advice
Clear physical signs

Question 4

Does Fidyah apply to pregnant or breastfeeding women?

Accepted Answer

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are required to fast in Ramadan.

However, Islam recognises situations where fasting may cause harm and provides concessions with mercy.

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