Karwa Chauth During Pregnancy: Expert Shares Tips for Safe Fasting for Moms-to-Be

Karwa Chauth is a traditional festival where married women observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise, offering prayers for the long life of their husbands. But when you are pregnant, the celebration assumes a deeper significance since you're carrying not one, but two lives. While it's understandable to maintain traditions, fasting during pregnancy requires special care and careful planning. 

Safe Karwa Chauth Fasting Tips During Pregnancy

We consulted with Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant and General Physician at Sharda Hospital - Noida, and he shared with us how you can enjoy the festival safely and meaningfully without compromising your health.

1. Talk to Your Doctor First

Always talk to your gynaecologist before committing to fasting. Each pregnancy is different; what is safe for one woman might not be safe for another. Gestational age, medical history, nutritional levels, and any complications of pregnancy (such as gestational diabetes, anaemia, or high blood pressure) have to be taken into account. If your physician does not recommend a complete fast, you can still join in symbolically, with light foods, fruit, or drinks during the day.

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2. Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Dehydration is among the greatest threats to pregnancy, particularly if Karwa Chauth coincides with hot weather. Inadequate fluids may cause dizziness, headaches, low blood pressure, or even premature contractions. If your custom permits, take sips of water, coconut water, or fresh juice at intervals. If your home observes strict fasting, think about altering the fast; go ahead with clear liquids or herbal teas between intervals with your family's knowledge and your physician's guidance.

3. Start the Day Right with a Nutritious Sargi

Pre-dawn meal (Sargi) is your day-long nutritional lifeline. Make it healthy and well-balanced, add complex carbs (oats, poha, or multigrain rotis), proteins (paneer, eggs, yoghurt, or milk), and healthy fats (nuts, seeds, or avocado). “Skip spicy or too salty food that leads to dehydration later on. Introduce fresh fruits such as bananas, apples, or pomegranates for sustained energy release,” Dr Srivastav recommended.

4. Listen to Your Body

Pregnancy is not the time to test your limits. If you are feeling dizzy, tired, nauseated, crampy, or have cloudy vision, break your fast right away and rest. Your body is already doing extra duty to feed your baby, and fasting shouldn't put you under extra stress. 

5. Adjust the Fast if Necessary

Many expectant mothers observe a phalahar fast, which is consuming fruits, milk, and light liquids instead of complete abstinence. Some also choose to eat small, nutritious meals while maintaining the spirit of the ritual. Don’t feel pressured to follow the traditional fast rigidly; your well-being and your baby’s health come first. Communicate openly with your spouse and family about your needs.

6. Break the Fast Gently

As the moon rises, don't overeat after a day of prolonged fasting. Start with water or fresh juice and then light food that is easy to digest, like soups, dal, khichdi, or vegetables with chapatis. Refill electrolytes naturally with fruits like oranges or watermelon.

7. Rest and Relaxation

Pregnancy may tire you more than normal, so take regular breaks during the day. Refrain from standing for extensive durations during rituals and sit comfortably while engaging in prayers. Light breathing exercises or a bit of meditation will also keep you calm and in touch during the fast.

Bottomline

Karwa Chauth is a celebration of love and companionship, a time to honour the union between wife and husband. When pregnant, it's also a time to celebrate your own body's amazing journey. If you opt to fast completely, partly, or symbolically, what matters more than how long you fast is the intention and commitment behind it. Celebrate in safety, honour the experience, and enjoy the joy of creating new life.