Gynecologist advises mothers-to-be and nursing women to consult doctors before fasting this Ramazan

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 23rd Feb, 2026) During the holy month of Ramazan, a gynecologist Monday advises pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to prioritize their health and their baby’s well-being by consulting their doctor and undergoing a general health check-up if they feel unwell or have concerns before deciding to fast.

While speaking to ptv news, gynecologist Dr. Farwa Hameed advised mothers-to-be and nursing women to prioritize their health over fasting during this Ramazan.

Dr. Farwa Hameed also emphasized that a healthy, nutrient-rich diet is essential for any woman fasting during pregnancy, including protein, fiber, calcium, and iron.

She emphasized that pregnant women in the first three months of pregnancy should pay particular attention to their sugar levels and blood pressure, stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet that includes folic acid and other essential nutrients.

For women in the later stages of pregnancy, Dr. Hameed highlighted several key precautions. Pregnant women who wish to fast should consult their doctors throughout the month to ensure that fasting does not negatively affect their baby’s health. It is essential for them to follow up regularly with healthcare professionals before making the decision to fast.

While observing the fast, she recommended that expectant mothers take frequent rest breaks during the day and ensure they consume sufficient nutrients and calories when breaking their fast each evening.

Adequate hydration is also critical, with a recommended intake of up to three liters of water between Sehri and Iftar.

Dr. Farwa Hameed explained that it is not medically advisable for pregnant women with complications such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or anemia to fast. These underlying conditions put both the mother and the unborn baby at higher risk, and fasting could lead to serious health issues.

Even for otherwise healthy pregnant women, fasting can have side effects such as nausea, dizziness, low birth weight, or slower metabolism. Dr. Hameed advised that any unusual symptoms like inadequate weight gain, extreme thirst, reduced urination, headaches, fever, nausea, or vomiting should prompt immediate consultation with a doctor.

Pregnant women should also seek urgent medical attention if they notice changes in their baby’s movements, experience contraction-like pains, or feel dizzy, faint, weak, or confused despite rest. Staying in close contact with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure the safety of both mother and baby while observing Ramazan.

Dr. Hameed further advised that pregnant women should avoid sweets and other sugary snacks commonly eaten after Iftar, and instead focus on a wholesome, balanced diet to support both maternal and fetal health.

By following these guidelines, expectant mothers can help safeguard their own well-being as well as that of their unborn child during Ramazan.