Pregnancy - Suffering from Weakness
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Question
A 41-year-old woman, in her 11th pregnancy, currently at 16 weeks. The pregnancy is progressing normally, with low iron (hemoglobin 10.6 and hematocrit 32.4). Overall, she feels well but suffers from occasional weakness. Usually, when she fasts, even in healthy conditions, she becomes very weak. The doctor (not observant of Torah and commandments) recommends drinking in portions. What should she do?
Answer
Shalom Rav
According to the rabbi's instruction after consulting with a doctor, only with hemoglobin less than 9 is there a prevention from fasting.
I am attaching the general rabbi's instructions for fasting on Yom Kippur during pregnancy:
The law for a pregnant woman on Yom Kippur fast:
A. A pregnant woman whose pregnancy is normal and she feels well should fast as usual, and she should prepare herself before the fast by drinking a large amount of fluids — between three to four liters on the day before the fast. During the fast, she should try to rest as much as possible and stay in an air-conditioned place, and not go to the synagogue. Also, the husband is obligated to assist his wife even if it means missing public prayer.
B. In case of contractions or cramps — drink in portions, and if that is not enough — drink normally.
C. If the woman feels strong weakness and dizziness and sees black before her eyes, she should drink in portions as any person in such a case.
D. Nausea during pregnancy poses no risk to the fetus, only discomfort. However, in the case of frequent or severe vomiting or if she vomited everything — dehydration may occur, so if the woman vomits a lot, she should drink in portions.
E. When hemoglobin is less than 9, do not fast and eat and drink in portions.
F. When the pregnancy is not normal, there are many details, and one should consult a sage.
G. A pregnant woman whose pregnancy is normal and can fast, but nevertheless fears the fast, can connect to an IV before Yom Kippur through professionals (you can inquire at Ezer MiTzion or Hatzalah, etc.), and if she does so, during the fast she can receive even several liters of fluids.
In our case, it is possible to fast.