Karwa Chauth 2024 fasting tips for pregnant women: Do not skip your medication

Karwa Chauth, a significant festival for married Hindu women, involves a day-long fast but for pregnant women, fasting can pose unique challenges due to increased nutritional demands and the delicate balance of hormones during pregnancy. Pregnancy gives a new identity to a woman but it also comes with some dos and don’ts rules especially during festive fasting as a woman’s body goes through several alterations in chemistry and functions hence, health experts insist that one should not fast.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Varini N, Senior Consultant – Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Milann Fertility Center in Bengaluru, shared, “During this phase, both the woman and the baby need a balanced diet and proper hydration. Woman with diabetes or gestational diabetes there is a need to keep the sugar level intact. Therefore, keep a few things in mind when a woman is pregnant and it’s a fasting day.” She advised –
This particular phase is very important and crucial so, you need to be careful about what you eat, your lifestyle, etc. It becomes very important to take advice from your physician regarding your regular routines.

Bringing her expertise to the same, Dr Rajeshwari Panda, Head of the Dietetics Department at Medicover Hospital in Kharghar Navi Mumbai, added to the list of tips to help you navigate Karwa Chauth fasting safely and comfortably –
Remember, fasting while pregnant requires careful planning and monitoring. By following these tips and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can safely and comfortably observe Karwa Chauth while prioritising the health and well-being of both you and your baby.

 
Given that fasting holds immense importance in Indian tradition and Karwa Chauth is an annual fasting tradition celebrated by the wives for better health and longevity of their husbands, Dt Arti Singh, Consultant – Nutrition and Dietitian at Motherhood Hospitals in Kharghar, Mumbai, sahred, “During Karwa Chauth married women tend to fast for the entire day even without drinking any fluid. This fast is itself considered difficult for women with healthy physical well-being. In this case, fasting while pregnant can pose several threats to them and the developing fetus. Pregnant women should be careful when fasting during Karwa Chauth.”
Talking about tips for pregnant women for Karwa Chauth fasting, she recommended –
Remember, your health and your baby’s well-being are paramount. If you have any concerns or doubts about fasting during pregnancy, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider.