Pregnant Women Fasting, What is the Impact on the Fetus?

The month of Ramadan is often a time that Muslims, including pregnant women, want to live to the fullest. However, many moms wonder, "Is fasting safe for pregnancy?" and "Is there any impact on the fetus?".

Well, instead of Moms being confused about whether to fast or not, let's discuss the impact of fasting on pregnant women and fetuses based on research and safe tips if pregnant women want to keep fasting.

Fasting While Pregnant, Safe or Not?

Several studies have shown that fasting in pregnant women has varying effects, depending on the mother's health condition, gestational age, and diet during sahur and iftar.

According to a study published in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine, pregnant women who fast with a balanced diet do not experience significant fetal growth disorders. However, there are also other studies that mention that fasting can affect the birth weight of the baby, especially if the mother experiences nutritional deficiencies or dehydration during fasting.

So, healthy pregnant women can safely do fasting, but there are still some things that need to be considered so that the fetus continues to develop properly.

Impact of Fasting on the Fetus

Fasting during pregnancy can have various effects on the fetus, depending on the mother's health condition and gestational age. Here are some of the risks that need to be considered:

1. Risk of Low Birth Weight

Some studies have found that pregnant women who fast during their second and third trimesters are at risk of giving birth to a lower-weight baby. This is because the fetus needs a lot of nutrients to grow, and if the intake of nutrients is lacking, the fetus's development can be disrupted.

2. Risk of Dehydration

Fasting can cause dehydration, especially if the mother does not drink enough water during sahur and iftar. Prolonged dehydration can affect the production of amniotic fluid, which is important to protect the fetus.

3. Impaired Fetal Development

In some cases, the lack of calorie and nutrient intake can affect fetal brain development. Therefore, pregnant women need to ensure that their consumption of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals are still fulfilled even though they are fasting.

4. Risk of Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Fasting for long periods can cause blood sugar levels to drop dramatically, which can cause the mother to feel dizzy, weak, and even faint. If this happens, it can negatively affect blood flow to the fetus.

Safe Fasting Tips for Pregnant Women

If pregnant women want to continue fasting, there are several tips that can be done to stay healthy and the fetus develops well:

1. Consult a doctor before deciding to fast. The doctor can evaluate the health conditions of the mother and fetus.
2. Fulfill fluid needs. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water from iftar to sahur to avoid dehydration.
3. Consume a balanced nutritious meal. Make sure there is protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats at every meal.
4. Avoid foods that can worsen the body's condition. Avoid foods high in sugar, caffeinated drinks, and excess salty foods.
5. Get enough rest. Reduce strenuous activity and get enough rest to maintain energy during fasting.

Pay attention to danger signs. If you experience excessive dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or reduced fetal movement, immediately cancel the fast and consult a doctor.

When should pregnant women not fast?

There are several conditions in which pregnant women should not fast because it can harm the mother and fetus, such as:

• Having a history of gestational diabetes
• Low blood pressure or hypertension
• Severe anemia
• Fetus has impaired growth
• Has had a previous miscarriage or premature labor

If pregnant women experience one of the above conditions, they should replace fasting with fidyah in accordance with religious recommendations.

So, fasting for pregnant women can be done  if the health condition of the mother and fetus is good and gets approval from the doctor. However, pregnant women still need to pay attention to nutritional intake, fluids, and danger signs while fasting.

If you feel that you are not strong enough or there is a risk to the fetus, pregnant women can postpone fasting for a while and replace it at a later date. Make sure that pregnant women always prioritize the health of themselves and the fetus.