Question

Assalamualaikum,

I pray you are in the best of health and iman inshaallah. I would like some advice regarding undergoing fertility treatment in Ramadan. I have already undergone 1 cycle of iui treatment (intrauterine insemination) (not using a donor but my husband) this was prior to Ramadan, unfortunately it ended in a miscarriage and the consultant has advised me to have another attempt at the treatment (the treatment must be consecutive in order to increase chances of success) therefore when my next period begins (most likely in ramadan) I will need to undergo the treatment again. Is it okay for us to continue with the treatment in Ramadan because there will be one day (day of insemination) where both me and my Husband will not be able to fast. Please can you advise as soon as possible.

Jazakallah khayrun

Answer

It is compulsory for a person to fast in the month of Ramadan. The Qur’an does mention cases when a person will be exempt from fasting in Ramadan and will be permitted to make up their fast after Ramadan. For example a person who is extremely sick or a person who is travelling is exempt from fasting. If the illness is not detrimental to the body, and the individual will not be severely impacted by fasting then they will have to keep the fast.

Undergoing IUI will not be considered a sickness whereby you will be permitted to miss fasting. You should fast in Ramadan and postpone your treatment for after Ramadan if the treatment means you have to break your fast or miss a fast.

We have also consulted relevant health care professionals on this matter and have been informed that consecutive treatment does not significantly increase the likelihood of pregnancy. You should utilise Ramadan as an opportunity to pray for the success of the treatment.

Answered by:
Ifta Research Fellow

Checked & Approved by:
Mufti Abdul Rahman Mangera
Mufti Zubair Patel