Key points
- Fasts missed because of haiz or nifas must be made up, ideally before the next Ramadan.
- If your period starts at any point in the day, that day's fast is broken.
- You can still seek Laylat al-Qadr through dua, dhikr and charity.
The basic rule
Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "We were ordered to make up the fasts, and not ordered to make up the prayers" (Muslim). A woman in haiz or nifas does not fast, and makes up the missed days after Ramadan.
During the day
- Period starts during the day: the fast ends. Make up that day.
- Period ends during the day: that day does not count as a fast, but you must refrain from eating and drinking until sunset, like those who are fasting. Make the day up later.
- Period ends before Fajr: if it ended before 10 days, the fast of that day is due when there was enough time before dawn to make ghusl and say the opening takbir; you can intend the fast and make ghusl after Fajr. If there was not enough time, refrain from eating that day and make it up. If it ended at the full 10 days, the fast is due even if there was only time for the takbir.
Making up the fasts
Count your missed days and make them up when you can. Hasten where possible and do not leave them past the next Ramadan without excuse. They can be kept on separate days; they do not need to be consecutive. Shorter winter days make it easier.
Laylat al-Qadr and the last ten nights
You cannot pray taraweeh or touch the mushaf, but the last ten nights are still yours. Make long dua, especially "Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni" which the Prophet ﷺ taught Aishah for this night (Tirmidhi), make dhikr and istighfar, listen to the Quran, give charity and help others to break their fast.
Medication to delay a period
Some women take tablets to postpone their period in Ramadan. Scholars generally say it is permitted if it is not harmful, but many advise against it, since the exemption is a mercy. Speak to your doctor about health risks first.
This guide is educational and follows mainstream Hanafi positions. For your own situation, please consult a qualified scholar. See the disclaimer, the glossary and how rulings are worked out.