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Plaster cast

22 October, 2017

Question:

I got my period recently, and in principle should be ready to go to the mikva at the end of next week.

The problem is that I broke a bone and have an unremovable (and unwashable) plaster cast on my arm, which is supposed to be on for 3+ more weeks (from now). And that plaster is a major hatzitza. I’ve seen suggestions to remove and/or change it, this is not a reasonable option for me.

So I need advice on what to do from now till then:

  • I assume (tell me if I’m wrong) that I do the 7 nekiyim as usual. But after that?
  • Do I bathe (all but my arm) then, or only when I’m ready to go to the mikva?
  • What do I do for the interim period: My understanding is no bedikot, no whites, but I’m fully a nidda. Is that correct, or are there some kulot I should know about?
  • Do I need to do another bedika after the cast comes off, before going to the mikva , or am I okay with the one I do at the end of 7 nekiyim?
  • Is there something else I need to know?
  • Or have I perhaps gotten something major wrong?

Answer:

Unfortunately, unless you can remove or change the cast (which may be plausible sooner than three weeks from now), you will have to delay immersion until after the cast is currently scheduled to be removed.

We do recommend observing the clean days as usual, just in case you find a way to get the cast off for an earlier immersion. No further bathing or preparations will be necessary until just prior to mikveh immersion.  Though you will remain niddah till after you immerse, you will not need to perform further bedikot or to continue wearing whites after the seventh clean day.

You may want to consider pushing off your next menstrual cycle so that you and your husband can have more time together after you do immerse. If you are currently using combined hormonal contraception, you can extend your cycle by starting a new pack of active pills (or a new ring or patch) without taking a break for the placebos. Otherwise, you can consult your physician about the possibility of taking progesterone to delay your next period.

Please get back to us with any further questions.

Refuah shleimah!


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