WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Tana Khazal Ahmed, Yogsel M. Zenalabeden, Sunbul N. Abdulqader

ABSTRACT

Background: There is little evidence that Ramadan fasting during pregnancy can negatively impact pregnancy and birth outcomes. Several epidemiologic studies have attempted to investigate this issue, yielding conflicting results. Aim of study: To determine the effects of maternal intermittent fasting during Ramadan on a range of pregnancy outcomes. Methods: A cohort study conducted at an Obstetrics and Gynecology private clinic, Kirkuk, Iraq during a period of two year from January 2023 to January 2025. It included all pregnant women who visited the private clinic for antenatal care and follow up of pregnancy. They were divided into two groups: Fasting group included 496 pregnant women who fasted during Ramadan during one of the pregnancy trimesters and non-fasting group included 260 pregnant women who didn’t fast during the pregnancy. Women were followed up till delivery and recorded the outcome parameters as fetal maturity, birthweight, Apgar score at 5th mint., and head circumference. Results: No statistically significant differences detected (P ≥ 0.05) between fasting and non-fasting women regarding amniotic fluid index, urinary tract infection, fetal maturity, birthweight, Apgar score, and head circumference. The duration of fasting didn’t show significant effect on amniotic fluid index, urinary tract infection, fetal maturity, birthweight, Apgar score, or head circumference. Conclusion: Pregnant women may successfully fast during Ramadan with proper care and careful consideration of their individual health circumstances.