Ramadan & Fasting for Muslim women
By Anisah Abdullah (Inherent Birth)
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and intense devotion for Muslims around the world. However, for pregnant and breastfeeding Muslim women, this period can bring a unique set of emotional and physical challenges. The struggle to balance their faith with the needs of their bodies and children can feel like an intense and overwhelming burden.
In general, pregnant and breastfeeding women require a higher intake of nutrients and calories to support their babies' growth and development. However, fasting can cause dehydration, low blood sugar, nutritional depletion, and fatigue, which can be particularly harmful to their health and that of their child. The conflicting opinions and information circulating as to if these women should fast, only add to the immense emotional and physical pressure on many Muslim mums.
For Black Muslim women, the challenge is even greater. The MBRACE report highlighted that Black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women. They are already navigating a healthcare system that often dismisses their concerns, and during Ramadan, the added pressures can exacerbate the existing inequalities they face.
As healthcare professionals and allies, it is crucial to recognise the additional barriers that Black Muslim women face during this period. These women are often subjected to racial bias and discrimination when seeking medical care, which can result in inadequate treatment and poor maternal outcomes. Therefore, it is essential to provide culturally competent and respectful care that addresses their unique needs.
We must listen to and respect Black Muslim women's needs and decisions regarding fasting during Ramadan and their care in general. Healthcare professionals can offer sound nutritional guidance that meets their unique needs, including suggestions for nutrient-dense foods and hydration strategies. We can encourage them to hydrate, especially during non-fasting hours, by drinking plenty of water, broths and other liquids.
It is also crucial to acknowledge that Black Muslim women are experts in their own bodies and families. They know what is best for themselves and their children, and we must support and empower them in making informed decisions about their health during Ramadan. This includes providing information on how to modify the fast to accommodate their unique needs, such as consuming small, frequent meals during non-fasting hours.
It’s crucial to be vigilant in monitoring their health and well-being, in a non-invasive way, during Ramadan and advise them to seek medical attention if they experience any adverse symptoms. We should also ensure they are aware of any adverse symptoms they may be able to spot so they can also be active participants in their care.
It’s imperative to create a safe and approachable space for Black Muslim women to discuss any concerns or questions they may have, and provide culturally safe resources and information on how they can maintain their health and well-being during Ramadan.
Lastly, let them lead. It can be difficult to support individuals through things we don’t necessarily understand or even agree with. Ultimately we are here to help increase positive experience and outcomes not replicate our own biases and opinions. It is our responsibility to ensure that they receive the respectful and culturally competent care that they deserve, to help them overcome the existing inequalities and achieve positive maternal outcomes.
Here are 5 tips for healthcare professionals, establishments, and allies to support pregnant and breastfeeding Muslim women during Ramadan and periods of fasting:
1-Cultural Competence: Ensure that you and your team have cultural competence training to understand the unique needs and experiences of Muslim women and the barriers they face when seeking healthcare. This will help create an environment that is respectful, inclusive, and responsive to their needs.
2-Active Listening: Listen actively to the concerns and needs of pregnant and breastfeeding Muslim women regarding their health and the impact of fasting during Ramadan. Allow them to express their feelings, and validate their emotions.
3-Personalised Care: Provide personalised care that considers the individual needs of each woman. This includes offering tailored nutritional guidance, supporting patients in modifying the fast to accommodate their unique needs, and monitoring their health and well-being during Ramadan.
4-Educate and Inform: Provide comprehensive information and resources to pregnant and breastfeeding Muslim women to enable them to make informed decisions about their health and fasting during Ramadan. This includes educating them on the potential risks and benefits of fasting and providing guidance on alternative methods to meet their religious obligations.
5-Community Engagement: Establish partnerships with local community organisations and leaders to increase outreach, awareness, and access to care for pregnant and breastfeeding Muslim women. These partnerships can help promote cultural sensitivity, increase community participation, and improve healthcare outcomes.
