Representational image.
Doha: To avoid complications, pregnant and breastfeeding women who are fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan are advised to watch for unusual symptoms. Pregnant and breastfeeding woman who have not sought medical advice prior to starting their fast are also advised to consult their doctor if they have questions about whether fasting is right for them.
Dr Salwa Abuyaqoub, a Senior Consultant for Obstetrics and Gynecology at Women’s Wellness and Research Center says pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consult with their physician and undergo a general health check before fasting. She also highlighted the importance of keeping the lines of communication open during the month, especially if a woman or her baby are experiencing unusual symptoms.
She says women who have been deemed fit to fast while pregnant should rest frequently throughout the day and ensure they receive the correct nutrients and calories when breaking their fast each evening. “Women should also ensure they consume up to three liters of water between Suhoor and Iftar and avoid sweets and other sugary snacks which are usually consumed after Iftar,” she added.
Dr. Amal Abu Bakr Arbab, Lactation Consultant and Lead for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative at Women’s Wellness and Research Center also agrees that it is important for breastfeeding women to consult with their physician prior to fasting. She says while it is advisable to speak with one’s doctors before Ramadan begins, women should not hesitate to talk to their healthcare team throughout the month, especially if they start to feel unwell.
“It is highly recommended that women exclusively breastfeed their babies for at least six months. Therefore, women with newborns are advised not to fast. Mothers of older babies who have already been weaned onto supplementary food in addition to their mother’s milk can fast because scientific evidence proves that fasting for 24 hours or less will cause very little change to the amount of breast milk produced and its composition,” she said.
Dr Arbab explained that fasting may cause fatigue and dehydration (especially during hot weather and long fasting days) which will impact a woman’s ability to breastfeed effectively. “To maintain a continuous flow of milk and ensure breastfeeding is a success, women should be physically and mentally prepared, keep cool, eat healthy food, drink enough fluids, get at least two hours of rest prior to feeding their baby and ensure an average of eight hours of sleep each night,” she highlighted.
