Can Breastfeeding Mothers Fast? Here Are 4 Helpful Tips from Hegen

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, many breastfeeding mothers find themselves facing a common dilemma. On one hand, there’s a sincere desire to observe the fast as they did before having a baby. On the other hand, doubts and familiar questions begin to surface, “Can breastfeeding mothers fast without affecting the quality of their milk or their baby’s health?”

These concerns are completely natural, especially for new mothers still adjusting to the rhythm of breastfeeding. Worries about reduced milk supply, fussier babies, and fatigue often lead to hesitation. The good news is that fasting can be done safely, as long as mothers know how to maintain proper hydration, nutrition, and a balanced feeding schedule.

With the support of Hegen’s modern breastfeeding system, designed to simplify every step of the nursing journey, mothers can continue to breastfeed comfortably even while fasting. In this article, we’ll explore the medical and religious perspectives on fasting while breastfeeding, the challenges that may arise, and practical tips to maintain milk quality along with a suggested fasting and feeding schedule!

Can Breastfeeding Mothers Fast?

From a medical standpoint, breastfeeding mothers can fast, provided they are in good health and their milk supply remains stable. According to recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI), most breastfeeding mothers are able to maintain sufficient milk volume and quality, as long as they consume enough fluids and nutrients during sahur (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking fast).

Physiologically, a mother’s body is remarkably adaptive. During fasting, the metabolism adjusts to ensure sufficient energy for milk production. This means that the ability to fast while breastfeeding depends on each mother’s physical condition, as well as how well she manages her diet, rest, and hydration.

From an Islamic perspective, breastfeeding mothers are granted rukhsah (leniency) when it comes to fasting. Scholars agree that a breastfeeding mother may be exempt from fasting if she fears for her own health or her baby’s well-being. However, if she feels strong and capable, she is encouraged to fast and will still receive the full spiritual reward.

In essence, fasting while breastfeeding is a personal choice, one that should be made based on each mother’s physical readiness, comfort, and confidence in managing her health and her baby’s needs.

Also read: Can Breastfeeding Mothers Take Medicine? Here’s the Truth!

Main Challenges of Breastfeeding While Fasting

While fasting is allowed for breastfeeding mothers, it does come with its own unique set of challenges. Here are some common obstacles many mothers face, and what you should be aware of:

1. Dehydration

During fasting, mothers go without fluids for more than half the day. This can lead to dehydration, causing the body to produce less milk. It’s important to remember that breast milk is made up of roughly 80% water, making hydration a critical factor in maintaining supply.

2. Decreased Energy Levels

Breastfeeding and pumping require additional calories. When nutritional intake is insufficient, mothers may feel fatigued and have difficulty concentrating throughout the day.

3. Limited Eating Times

With only two main meal times, sahur (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking fast), meeting daily nutritional needs can be challenging if meals aren’t properly planned.

4. Baby’s Feeding Needs Continue

A baby’s need for breast milk remains constant, even while the mother is fasting. That’s why it’s essential to maintain a consistent feeding schedule to prevent fussiness and ensure the baby continues receiving enough nourishment.

Facing these challenges doesn’t mean giving up on fasting. The key lies in finding strategies that keep your body hydrated, your energy sustained, and your milk supply stable.

Also read: Can Breastfeeding Mothers Eat Instant Noodles? Here’s What Experts Recommend!

Practical Tips to Maintain Breast Milk Supply During Fasting

To stay strong while fasting without compromising your baby’s nutritional needs, here are some practical tips you can apply. Read carefully!

1. Stay Hydrated with the 2-4-2 Pattern

Drink 2 glasses of water at iftar (breaking fast), 4 glasses throughout the evening, and 2 glasses at sahur (pre-dawn meal). This pattern helps maintain stable hydration levels throughout the day.

2. Eat a Balanced, Nutritious Diet

Choose foods rich in protein (such as chicken, eggs, and fish), green vegetables, fresh fruits, and complex carbohydrates like oatmeal or brown rice. Avoid overly salty or sugary foods, as they can accelerate dehydration.

3. Istirahat yang Cukup

Adequate sleep is essential for keeping prolactin, the milk-producing hormone, balanced. Take short naps during the day or rest when your baby sleeps to help your body recover.

4. Pump Regularly

Schedule pumping sessions after sahur and before bedtime. Maintaining a consistent pumping rhythm helps sustain the body’s natural milk production signals.

By following these tips, the question “Can breastfeeding mothers fast?” no longer feels like a dilemma, it becomes a challenge that can be managed successfully with proper time and energy balance.

Also read: Breast Pumping Guide — Preparation Essentials and Tips for a Successful Start

Hegen’s Support for Breastfeeding Routines During Fasting

Hegen understands the unique challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers who wish to observe fasting with peace of mind. That’s why every Hegen product is thoughtfully designed with modern technology to support smooth feeding and pumping routines, even when energy levels are limited. Here are the key advantages that make Hegen a true companion for mothers during Ramadan:

1. BPA-Free PPSU Bottles

Made from premium, BPA-free PPSU material, Hegen bottles are heat-resistant up to 180°C and highly durable, maintaining their clarity even after frequent sterilization. They’re ideal for mothers who clean and sterilize bottles daily during sahur and iftar routines.

2. Advanced Anti-Colic System

Hegen’s dual-vented teats help minimize air intake during feeding, preventing colic and ensuring your baby remains comfortable, even if feeding schedules shift during fasting hours.

3. Ergonomic Square-Shaped Design

Hegen’s signature square shape makes bottles easy to grip, store, and organize. Perfect for mothers who pump at night or  need to store expressed milk neatly in the refrigerator after sahur.

4. Modular System

The interchangeable lid design allows Hegen bottles to double as milk storage containers without transferring milk to another bottle, practical, hygienic, and time-saving.

These innovative features prove that Hegen empowers mothers to provide high-quality breast milk efficiently and safely, without compromising their fasting or daily routines.

Also read: 9 Skincare Ingredients Breastfeeding Mothers Should Avoid

A Realistic Fasting and Feeding Schedule for Breastfeeding Mothers

Source: freepik

To support a smooth breastfeeding journey during Ramadan, here’s a simple and realistic daily schedule mothers can follow while fasting:

• Sahur (03:30 – 04:30): Have a high-protein meal, drink at least two glasses of water, and do one pumping session before imsak.

• Morning to Noon (08:00 – 13:00): If the baby is still breastfeeding directly, continue feeding on demand. For working mothers, expressed breast milk can be given using Hegen’s anti-colic bottles to ensure the baby’s comfort even when feeding times shift.

• Iftar (18:00): Break the fast with water, dates, and a nutritious meal. Afterwards, pump again to help maintain your milk production signals.

• Night (21:00 – 22:00): Add one more pumping session to increase milk supply. Store the expressed milk directly in Hegen’s storage containers to keep it sterile and ready for use the next day.

Also read: Can Breastfeeding Mothers Eat Durian? Find Out the Facts Here!

When Should Breastfeeding Mothers Avoid Fasting?

Although breastfeeding mothers are generally allowed to fast, there are certain conditions where it’s best to postpone fasting for the sake of both mother and baby’s health. Here are a few important signs to watch for:

1. Baby Under 6 Months Old

If your baby is still exclusively breastfed without any solid food, their fluid needs are very high. Fasting may increase the risk of reduced milk supply.

2. Experiencing Severe Physical Symptoms

Feeling dizzy, excessively weak, or showing signs of dehydration such as dry lips and dark urine are signals that your body needs immediate nourishment.

3. Noticeable Drop in Milk Supply

If your baby becomes unusually fussy, gains little to no weight, or your milk flow decreases significantly, it’s best to break the fast and allow your body to recover.

Islam provides ease for breastfeeding mothers. If fasting feels too difficult, mothers may make up the missed fasts later or pay fidyah. What matters most is maintaining the health and well-being of both mother and baby.

Also read: Can Breastfeeding Mothers Eat Pineapple? Here’s the Truth!

So, can breastfeeding mothers fast? Yes, as long as you feel strong and can maintain proper hydration and nutrition. With the right preparation and mindset, fasting can be a spiritually enriching moment that strengthens the bond between mother and child.

Hegen products are here to support mothers throughout Ramadan. From BPA-free PPSU bottles with anti-colic design to ergonomic breast pumps, every detail is crafted to help you provide high-quality breast milk even while fasting.

Discover practical solutions for breastfeeding during Ramadan with Hegen PPSU Bottles and Breastfeeding Systems. Visit Hegen’s official online store today to explore a complete range of bottles, breast pumps, and feeding essentials designed for mothers and their little ones.