Why Women Do Not Fast During Their Period

Question

Why are women not allowed to fast during menstruation?

Bottom Line

It is not a deficiency but a concession of ease.

Quick Answer

Fasting while menstruating would weaken women due to blood loss and could cause harm. Allah, in His wisdom, prohibited it and commanded women to make up missed fasts later. This ruling is rooted in mercy and compassion, not blame.

Key Takeaways

• Menstruation naturally weakens the body through blood loss.
• Combining fasting with menstruation may cause harm.
• Women are commanded to make up missed fasts later, ensuring balance and fairness.

Detailed Answer

In Islam, fasting is an act of worship that requires strength and stability. Menstruation already brings physical weakness due to blood loss, and adding fasting on top of this could harm women. Out of mercy, Allah has lifted the obligation during this time. This ruling is not a shortcoming but a divine allowance that reflects Allah’s compassion and understanding of human needs.

‘Aishah (RA) said: “We used to menstruate at the time of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, and we were commanded to make up the fasts, but we were not commanded to make up the prayers.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 321; Sahih Muslim 335)

This shows that women are not blameworthy for missing fasts; instead, they are honored by being given rest and the chance to make them up later. Islam always balances devotion with mercy and well-being.

What This Means for You

If you are a woman, know that not fasting during your period is obedience, not disobedience. By making up missed days later, you complete your duty without burdening yourself unfairly.

And Allah knows best.

References

Primary Sources

Hadith

1. Sahih al-Bukhari 321: Women were commanded to make up fasts missed during menstruation, but not prayers.
2. Sahih Muslim 335: ‘Aishah (RA) confirms this ruling.

Secondary Sources

3. Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalani, Fath al-Bari, commentary on Sahih al-Bukhari 321.
4. Imam al-Nawawi, Sharh Sahih Muslim, explanation of menstruation rulings.