Fasting during Pregnancy with Special Difficulties

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Question

Hello, My wife is 20 weeks and 6 days pregnant. In a previous pregnancy, she had gestational diabetes, and it is still unknown now. She finds fasting extremely difficult, and last Yom Kippur she had to drink in small amounts towards the end of the fast due to severe weakness (and as a result of breastfeeding). What is her status now, should she fast, etc.?

Answer

Hello,

She should begin fasting as usual.

I am attaching the laws from our teacher, Rabbi shlita, regarding fasting during pregnancy:

PZ. A pregnant woman - when the pregnancy is normal and she feels well, she should fast as usual [if she is afraid to fast, see in the responsa below, regarding eating and drinking for the sick]. 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 and stay in an air-conditioned place, and not go to the synagogue.
PH. In case of contractions or cramps - she should drink in small amounts, and if that is not enough - she should drink normally.
PT. If the woman feels strong weakness and dizziness and sees black before her eyes, her status is like any person, in this case, she should drink in small amounts. If that is not enough, she should drink a larger amount.
C. Nausea during pregnancy does not pose a risk to the fetus, only discomfort. But in 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 small amounts.
CA. When hemoglobin is below 9 - do not fast, and eat and drink in small amounts.

When the pregnancy is not normal, there are many details, and one should ask a wise person.
CB. The husband is obligated to help his wife, even if it cancels his participation in public prayer (as explained in section KE).

Source

Azmera Leshimcha 305

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