Do you have to make up fasts if breastfeeding?

Understanding Fasting and Breastfeeding
The question of whether breastfeeding mothers need to make up missed fasts during religious observances, such as Ramadan, is a nuanced topic that has generated considerable discussion among scholars and practitioners alike. The consensus among many Islamic scholars is that breastfeeding women are permitted to refrain from fasting if it poses a risk to their health or the health of their child. However, the obligation to make up for these missed fasts varies based on differing interpretations of Islamic law.
The Rulings on Fasting While Breastfeeding
According to various sources, breastfeeding mothers are allowed to skip fasting if it could be detrimental to their health or the well-being of their baby. This leniency is rooted in the understanding that the physical demands of breastfeeding can be significant, and fasting may exacerbate fatigue or dehydration. However, opinions diverge when it comes to the requirement to make up for these missed fasts.
Some scholars assert that breastfeeding women must make up the days they did not fast, citing traditional texts and interpretations that emphasize the importance of fulfilling religious obligations. Others argue that instead of making up the fasts, women can opt to provide fidyah, which involves feeding the poor as a form of compensation for the missed fasts.
The Debate Among Scholars
The debate centers around interpretations of Islamic texts and the context of a woman’s health during breastfeeding. For instance, while some scholars reference reports from companions of the Prophet Muhammad, such as Ibn ‘Umar, who suggested that feeding the poor suffices, others contend that these views are weak and do not align with stronger evidence that mandates making up the fasts. This divergence highlights the complexity of religious rulings and the need for individual consideration based on personal circumstances.
Practical Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers who choose to fast while breastfeeding, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution. Many health professionals recommend consulting with a doctor to ensure that both mother and baby remain healthy during fasting periods. Additionally, some mothers find that they can manage intermittent fasting without adverse effects, but this requires careful planning and monitoring of hydration and nutrition.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have the option to refrain from fasting if it poses health risks. The requirement to make up missed fasts is debated among scholars, with some advocating for the obligation to do so, while others suggest that providing fidyah may be sufficient. Ultimately, the decision should be made with consideration of personal health, religious beliefs, and guidance from knowledgeable sources.

Can I dry fast while breastfeeding?

Healthy mothers are likely to cope well with short-term fasting. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before fasting. If you are breastfeeding and fasting, your baby will generally breastfeed as usual on the day of the fast, but might breastfeed more often for the next day or two.

Will my milk dry up if I miss a feed?

If I Wait to Nurse, Will My Milk Supply Increase? Actually, no — it’s the opposite. Waiting too long to nurse or pump can slowly reduce your milk supply. The more you delay nursing or pumping, the less milk your body will make.

What are the rules for breastfeeding mothers during Ramadan?

If women are exclusively breastfeeding their babies, they are not expected to fast during Ramadan. Most Muslim scholars believe that women who are breastfeeding have permission not to fast.

Do you have to make up missed fasts?

For those who are able to, making up missed fasts is an obligatory act upon us.

Do you have to make up fasts missed during breastfeeding?

A third view has been reported from Ibn Abbas and Ibn Umar, both Companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and some other scholars. They say that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not obligated to make up for the fasts they missed; they are required only to offer fidyah.

What happens if you don’t make up missed fasts?

If you don’t fast for any of the days of Ramadan, you’ll be required to pay a charitable form of compensation. You must pay fidya (fidyah) for fasts missed out of necessity, that cannot be made up afterwards.

Can I touch my wife’s breast during fasting?

Guidelines for Physical Intimacy During Fasting
In light of Islamic teachings, touching one’s wife, including her breasts, is permissible during fasting as long as it does not lead to sexual arousal or intercourse.

Do I have to make up fasts if I was pregnant?

During the month of Ramadan, healthy adult Muslims are required to fast, abstaining from both food and drink between sunrise and sunset. Pregnant women are exempt from fasting and can elect to make up for any missed days at a later date or to pay for someone else to be fed (Fidyah) [1].

Do I have to fast if I’m breastfeeding?

During Lent, you are exempt from fasting if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This means that unless you choose to fast, you don’t have to.

What are the fasting guidelines for breast milk?

Most national guidelines recommend a “6-4-2” rule for preoperative fasting, meaning a minimum of 6-hour fast for solid food or formula, 4 hours for breast milk, and 2 hours for clear fluids.