Pregnant women should break their fast with these warning signs

Whether expectant mothers should fast during Ramadan is a much-debated topic, as some experts suggest that it is safe for both the mother and unborn child, while others urge pregnant women to avoid fasting completely, stressing that it could harm the health of the fetus.

With these warning signs, you should break your fast and contact your doctor straight away:

• You’re not putting on enough weight, or are losing weight. You probably won’t be weighed during your antenatal appointments, so try to weigh yourself regularly at home while you are fasting.
• You become very thirsty, are weeing less frequently, or if your wee becomes dark-colored and strong-smelling. This is a sign of dehydration, and it can make you more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other complications.
• You develop a headache or other pains, or a fever.
• There is a noticeable change in your baby’s movements, such as if your baby is not moving around or kicking as much.
• You notice contraction-like pains. This could be a sign of premature labor.
• You feel dizzy, faint, weak, confused or tired, even after you have had a good rest. Break your fast immediately and drink water containing salt and sugar, or an oral rehydration solution.

In most cases, whether pregnant women should fast or not, often depends on their general health, and whether they are fit, to begin with, so Your body is your best guide in telling you when and if something is wrong. Make sure you listen to it and be safe and ask your doctor before doing anything.