Jewish Fast Days: Can Pregnant Women Try to Fast?
In a recent episode of the Healthful Woman podcast, “Jewish Fast Days: Can Pregnant Women Try to Fast?” podcast host Dr. Nathan Fox and Dr. Stephanie Melka discuss whether it’s safe for women to fast. On Jewish fast days, individuals don’t eat or drink for up to 25 hours, depending on the specific holiday. Dr. Fox and Dr. Melka explain when it is safe and when it is not for pregnant women to fast and how they advise their patients.
Fasting During Pregnancy in the Jewish Tradition
While fasting is practiced across many religions, most of Dr. Fox’s and Dr. Melkas’ patients with questions about fasting are Jewish. Dr. Melka, who was raised Catholic, became familiar with Jewish fast days after moving into an area with a large Jewish population. Dr. Fox explains that fasting in Judaism is never intended to endanger your health. In the past, pregnancy was considered too risky, and women were excused from fasting entirely. Today, the approach is more individualized. Dr. Fox states, “It’s inappropriate to say every woman can fast; it’s also important not to say every pregnant woman should not fast.”
When It May Be Safe to Fast
During an appointment with a patient concerned about fasting, Dr. Melka begins by asking patients about their intentions and then offers recommendations based on their health, pregnancy status, and the rabbi’s guidance. Women who are healthy, have no complications, and have fasted before may be able to do so again. However, she advises that fasting should end if you experience concerning symptoms such as dizziness, faintness, or contractions. Eating and drinking water should take priority before deciding whether to continue.
Dehydration is the most common risk of fasting for pregnant women. Dr. Fox notes that Jewish law permits approximately one ounce of liquid every ten minutes, if necessary. Dr. Fox states, “I don’t think I’ve ever come across a situation where a patient or rabbi disagreed on that front.” Many rabbis are lenient toward pregnant women pursuing a fast.
When Fasting Is Not Recommended
Some conditions make fasting unsafe. These include pregnancies with multiples, prior preterm birth, cerclage placement, the need for specific medications, diabetes, or severe vomiting. Another concern is triggering contractions or labor. At full term, fasting may become more of a personal decision; however, contractions and feeling unwell are valid reasons to break a fast.
Medication also requires careful consideration. Dr. Melka explains that while it may be acceptable to skip less essential supplements for one day, important prescriptions, such as blood pressure medication or injectables, should never be omitted.
Seeking Guidance
Dr. Fox acknowledges that some physicians discourage fasting in pregnancy altogether. Dr. Fox encourages patients to seek advice from both their doctor and rabbi. If they feel their concerns are not fully understood, he recommends receiving additional guidance so that decisions are made with both medical safety and religious observance in mind.
Learn More
To learn more about fasting during pregnancy, listen to the full Healthful Woman podcast episode. For information about pregnancy, please contact Maternal Fetal Medicine Associates in New York by completing our online contact form.
Maternal Fetal Medicine blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!
