In 39th week on Tisha B'Av - Nishmat Yoatzot Halacha

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In 39th week on Tisha B’Av

July 9, 2013

Question

I am 37.5 weeks pregnant right now and will be 10 days before my due date on Tisha B’av this year. I am wondering what the halacha is with regards to fasting. Obviously, at this point, especially in this heat, I need to eat and drink constantly in order to not feel sick and to not get contractions (in general I am a horrible faster, even not pregnant). I do not wish to fast and go into labor because I am dehydrated and feel sick, but rather have the baby when it is good and ready to come, and with all my strength.

Thank you in advance!

Answer

B'sha'ah tovah!

According to many opinions, pregnant women are generally required to fast on Tisha B’Av. However, permission to eat is given in situations in which the fast is a threat to the woman’s or fetus’s health. Given your concerns, we suggest you consult your physician prior to the fast and then get back to us or a local halachic authority.

A pregnant woman fasting on the ninth of Av should be sure to hydrate herself well beforehand and to get ample rest during the fast (lying down, arranging for babysitting, etc.) in a cool environment. If she begins to feel sick (beyond a light headache and lethargy), she can break her fast.

For more information on fasting during pregnancy or immediately postpartum, please see our article here.