For many families, Ramadan is a special month filled with spirituality, peace, and family closeness. But when it coincides with the birth of a child, the experience becomes uniquely intense—mixing joy, anxiety, exhaustion, and hope. One mother shared her journey of giving birth during Ramadan, from the last days of pregnancy to the first embrace of her newborn, along with expert advice from an obstetrician.
The Final Days of Pregnancy During Ramadan
During the last ten days of Ramadan, she was in her 39th week of pregnancy. The anticipation of labor brought natural anxiety—every movement felt significant, every twinge of pain raised questions.
She followed her doctor’s advice, fasting when possible but listening to her body:
Drinking plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor
Eating balanced meals with proteins, fruits, and vegetables
Avoiding salty foods that increase thirst
Despite fatigue from fasting and the pregnancy, she felt a spiritual energy from Ramadan that helped her endure the last days.
The Night Labor Began
A couple of hours after Iftar, she felt mild lower abdominal contractions, different from usual pre-labor ones. Within an hour, contractions became regular every ten minutes. She informed her husband, who felt both worried and excited. They waited until the contractions intensified before heading to the hospital.
The streets were quiet—most people were at Taraweeh prayers or with family—which made the journey feel longer.
In the Emergency Room
At the hospital, a nurse welcomed them, and her doctor confirmed that labor had begun, expecting several hours of delivery. She felt a mix of fear, excitement, and gratitude for experiencing this in Ramadan.
During labor, she focused on breathing and reciting prayers she learned as a child.
Long Hours of Labor
Labor lasted about six hours—a physically and mentally challenging experience. Encouragement from her husband, nurses, and doctor gave her strength. During intense contractions, she heard the Adhan for Suhoor, and smiled, thinking her baby wanted to be born with the start of a new day in Ramadan.
The Life-Changing Moment
Finally, it was time to push. After intense effort, the cries of her newborn filled the room. The doctor announced with a smile:
"Congratulations, it’s a boy."
Holding her baby for the first time, she felt an overwhelming warmth and joy—the exhaustion vanished instantly.
First Meal After Birth
Although it was nearly Fajr, her focus was on her newborn. A nurse brought water and dates, allowing her to regain some energy. The moment was simple but deeply profound—a new mother embracing life and motherhood during Ramadan.
The First Days Postpartum
The first days were challenging: recovery, sleep deprivation, and constant care for the newborn. Family support made it manageable, with her mother assisting and her husband attentive to her needs. Gradually, she gained confidence and found joy in experiencing Ramadan together as a new family.
Doctor’s Tips for Giving Birth During Ramadan
According to an obstetrician:
Listen to Your Body
Break your fast if you feel extreme fatigue, dizziness, or dehydration. Health comes first.
Stay Hydrated
Drink 8–10 cups of water between Iftar and Suhoor. Include water-rich fruits like watermelon and oranges.
Eat Nutritious Meals
Include protein (chicken, fish), complex carbs (rice, whole bread), fruits, vegetables, and dairy to maintain energy.
Avoid Overexertion
Limit physically demanding tasks or long standing, especially in the final weeks.
Recognize Early Labor Signs
Regular contractions, water breaking, severe lower back pain, or bloody discharge signal labor—go to the hospital immediately.
Don’t Worry About Fasting During Labor
It’s safe to break your fast for energy and hydration during labor.
Postpartum Care
Focus on nutrition, hydration, and rest. Nursing mothers should maintain fluid intake and nutrient-rich foods to support milk production.
Giving birth during Ramadan is a unique journey—combining the physical challenges of labor, the joy of welcoming a new life, and the spiritual atmosphere of a blessed month. It’s an experience that blends endurance, hope, and profound gratitude.
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