Nishmat's Women’s Health and HalachaIn memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

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Washing before hefsek

27 April, 2003
Question:

I did not have time to wash myself before doing my hefsek taharah. Is the hefsek valid?


Answer:

The custom to wash oneself prior to a hefsek was instituted to benefit the woman, so that she wouldn’t find any old blood or stains during the seven clean days and need to start again. The custom should be followed if at all possible. However, the hefsek remains valid when washing is forgotten, not possible, or even when knowingly omitted.

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