Question
Reference number: 584214 | Fasting | Sept. 24, 2020
What is the ruling if a woman takes medicine to delay her period (menstruation) in the month Ramadan so as not to break her fast and then make the days up?
Answer
Praise Be to Allah and Peace Be Upon His Messenger.
Taking medicine to delay menstruation is allowed in Islam provided that it will not cause any complications to the woman, and the husband must be excused. However, not taking such medication is better as it goes with human nature.
Shaikh Muhammad Ahmad Hussain, the General Mufti (Muslim Legal Scholar), in the Palestinian Legal Verdict Council, was once asked a similar question. He answered:
"Originally, menstruation is a fate that Allah implemented on women. It is natural and timed bleeding that prevents women from fasting. Thus, it is better for a woman to consent, and accept this biological function, fast when possible, break her fast when necessary, and then make those days up. Nevertheless, it is still allowed in Islam to take such medication provided that she consults her physician and stays healthy."