Fasting During Pregnancy - Low Blood Pressure

Hello, My wife is pregnant (not at risk) in the second trimester, and in recent tests, she has had very low blood pressure several times. Should she fast on Yom Kippur?

Hello 

According to the instructions of the doctor, it is permissible to fast in this case. 

I am attaching the general laws for fasting during pregnancy:

Law for a pregnant woman on Yom Kippur fast:

A. A pregnant woman with a normal pregnancy and feeling well should fast as usual, and she should prepare herself before the fast by drinking a lot of fluids — between three to four liters the day before the fast. During the fast, she should try to rest as much as possible, stay in an air-conditioned place, and not go to the synagogue. Also, the husband is obligated to help his wife even if it means missing communal prayer.

B. In case of contractions or cramps — drink in measured amounts, 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 measured amounts as any person in such a case.

D. Nausea during pregnancy does not pose a risk to the fetus, only discomfort. However, in the case of frequent or severe vomiting or if everything is vomited — dehydration may occur, and therefore if the woman vomits a lot, she should drink in measured amounts.

E. When hemoglobin is below 9, do not fast, and one should eat and drink in measured amounts.

F. When the pregnancy is not normal, there are many details, and one should consult a wise person.

G. A pregnant woman with a normal pregnancy, who can fast, but nevertheless is concerned about the fast, can connect to an IV before Yom Kippur through professionals (can inquire at Ezer Mizion or Hatzalah, etc.), and if she does so, during the fast she can receive even several liters of fluids.