Pregnancy in Islam: Faith Got Me Through It -

Before I dive into more details about pregnancy in Islam I need to tell you how I went from being absolutely terrified of the whole process to embracing it, and finding a sense of peace within my faith.
Honestly, the thought of being pregnant used to terrify me. Like, seriously terrified. Even as a kid, when I first learned how babies were born, I was like, “Nope, not happening.” All the sickness, the crazy emotions, and, let’s be real, the whole giving birth thing? It just seemed impossible. Later on, I knew I wanted a family, but that fear was still there, a huge, overwhelming anxiety. Plus, there’s always that worry in the back of your mind that things can go wrong, that even the best-laid plans can fall apart because, ultimately, it’s not entirely in our control.

Pregnancy in Islam

Pregnancy in Islam is regarded as one of the most blessed and sacred journeys a woman can experience. It is a time of great emotional, and physical transformation, where a mother carries a child entrusted to her by Allah. The Quran and Hadith highlight the significance of pregnancy, emphasizing its rewards, challenges, and the virtues of patience and gratitude during this phase. In this article, I will cover various aspects of pregnancy in Islam, including its rewards, challenges, recommended supplications, and the responsibilities of both parents.

Special Status and Privileges

Finding out I was pregnant, especially so soon after my miscarriage, was a complete shock. I was stunned. After staring at the positive test for a few minutes, I immediately made wudu, prayed two sunnah rakats, and then made du’a, thanking Allah for this incredible gift.

One of the most beautiful aspects of pregnancy in Islam is the special status granted to expecting mothers. During my pregnancy, I learned that Islam exempts pregnant women from fasting during Ramadan if they fear harm to themselves or their unborn child. This compassionate allowance showed me how Islam prioritizes the well-being of both mother and child.

Daily Life and Practices

Throughout my pregnancy, I found immense comfort in maintaining my islamic practices while adapting them to my changing needs. The five daily prayers became moments of intimate conversation with Allah, where I would place my hand on my growing belly and pray for my unborn child. Islamic traditions encourage mothers to recite the Quran during pregnancy, believing it benefits both mother and child spiritually.

Since I couldn’t recite the Quran perfectly, I started listening to Surah Maryam every day. I was thrilled to be pregnant, but the fear of another loss was still very real. My pregnancy was high-risk because of my medical history, and there was a strong chance of preterm labor. I became a research machine! I did a lot of research, like a lot! Spending hours online, especially on Islamic websites, looking for the best supplications and ways to ensure a successful pregnancy. I wanted to do everything I possibly could.

Eventually, I found a few specific supplications that I started reciting after every obligatory namaz (prayer). I’ve included them all here, and I really recommend making them part of your daily routine. I also made countless du’as, asking Allah to protect both my baby and me, to guide us, and to bless me with an easy delivery.

The Blessings and Rewards of Pregnancy in Islam

Pregnancy is a sign of Allah’s divine power and mercy. It is not only a means of bringing new life into the world but also a source of immense rewards for the mother.

1. A Path to Jannah (Paradise)

Islam teaches that a mother’s sacrifices during pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing are highly rewarded by Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“When a woman is pregnant, she is in the path of Allah, and her reward is similar to that of someone fasting and praying for the sake of Allah.” (Ibn Hibban)

This hadith illustrates how pregnancy in Islam is a source of continuous blessings, making it an act of worship in itself.

2. Forgiveness of Sins

Islam emphasizes that enduring hardship with patience leads to the expiation of sins. The difficulties a woman faces during pregnancy—whether morning sickness, fatigue, or labor pains—serve as a means of purification.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick of a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for it.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

3. Elevated Status of Mothers

The Quran honors mothers, emphasizing their sacrifices. Allah says:

“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.” (Quran 31:14)

This verse highlights the immense sacrifices of a mother and reminds believers to be grateful for their parents’ hardships.

Responsibilities During Pregnancy in Islam

While pregnancy is a phase of spiritual elevation, Islam also emphasizes the responsibilities of both parents to ensure a righteous and healthy upbringing for the child.

1. Maintaining a Strong Connection with Allah

Pregnant women are encouraged to strengthen their faith by engaging in acts of worship, including prayer (salah), supplication (dua), and recitation of the Quran. Reciting Surah Maryam and Surah Yasin is especially recommended for ease in pregnancy and childbirth.

2. Making Dua (Supplications)

Dua is a powerful tool in Islam. Some recommended supplications for pregnancy include:

Dua for a righteous child
Dua for an easy delivery

3. Observing a Healthy Diet

Islam promotes consuming halal and pure foods. A pregnant woman is advised to eat nutritious meals, including dates, honey, and milk, which are mentioned in the Sunnah as beneficial foods. I would have a glass of warm milk before going to bed. Dates are recommended towards the end of pregnancy, some say from 36 weeks pregnancy, I started around 34 weeks being pregnant.

4. Avoiding Stress and Keeping Healthy

Pregnancy in Islam is a time when a woman should avoid anything that negatively affects her mental and physical well-being. Engaging in positive activities, staying away from gossip, and maintaining good company are encouraged. This was especially important for me, since I was already dealing with a lot of anxiety about childbirth. I made sure to walk for at least 45 minutes every day. Once I started my maternity leave, I bumped that up to twice a day – a shorter walk in the morning, and a longer one in the evening with my husband when he got home from work.

Childbirth in Islam

As my due date approached, I found strength in Islamic teachings about childbirth. The Quran describes the pain of labor that Maryam (Mary) experienced, reminding me that this intense experience is part of Allah’s plan. I prepared myself by making a lot of du’as, crying to Allah I can not do it without his mercy and blessings. Honestly, the more I prayed, the more I could feel Allah taking my fear away. I started to feel more positive, more confident. I knew I could do it, and I had complete trust in Allah’s plan.

Labor and childbirth are challenging yet rewarding experiences. Islam recognizes the pain a mother endures and grants her immense rewards. ‘d heard that any du’a a woman makes during labor is accepted, which was something I kept in mind. But, to be totally honest, when those contractions really kicked in, concentration went out the window! All I could do was to focus on my breathing.

Postpartum Period in Islam

1. Nifas (Postpartum Bleeding)

A mother is exempt from prayers during the postpartum period (typically 40 days) but is encouraged to continue making dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and du’a.

2. Aqiqah (Celebration of Birth)

Islam encourages the Aqiqah, where an animal is sacrificed on behalf of the child, typically on the 7th day after birth, to express gratitude to Allah.

3. Breastfeeding in Islam

Breastfeeding is highly encouraged, as mentioned in the Quran:

“Mothers may breastfeed their children two complete years for whoever wishes to complete the nursing [period].” (Quran 2:233)

It is considered an act of love, nourishment, and bonding between mother and child.

Frequently Asked Question by Expecting Mothers

Q: Is pregnancy considered a blessing in Islam?

A: Yes, absolutely. Pregnancy is viewed as a tremendous blessing and a gift from Allah. It’s a sign of His creative power and a continuation of the human lineage.

Q: What are some recommended practices for a pregnant Muslim woman?

A: Some recommended practices include:

Making frequent du’a (supplications) for a healthy pregnancy and easy delivery.
Reciting or listening to Quran, particularly Surah Maryam.
Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Avoiding anything that could harm the mother or the baby.
Surrounding oneself with positive influences and avoiding gossip.
Having complete trust in Allah’s plan.

Q: Are there specific Islamic guidelines regarding prenatal care?

A: While there aren’t detailed medical guidelines in the Quran or Hadith, Islam emphasizes the importance of taking care of one’s health. This includes seeking appropriate medical care and following medical advice.

Q: What is the Islamic view on miscarriage?

A: Miscarriage is seen as a test from Allah, and it’s a time for patience and reliance on Him. Muslims believe that even in such difficult times, there is wisdom and a purpose behind Allah’s decree.

Q: What is the Islamic perspective on du’a during labor?

A: It is believed that du’a made during labor is especially powerful and likely to be accepted. This emphasizes the importance of turning to Allah during times of difficulty.

Final Reflection

My experience of pregnancy in Islam has been a beautiful fusion of faith, and modern understanding. It really showed me how Islam offers guidance for every aspect of life, and I found so much peace in those teachings. This experience not only strengthened my connection with Allah, but also gave me an appreciation for the wisdom within Islamic teachings regarding motherhood and the miracle of creation.

Pregnancy in Islam is a sacred and rewarding journey filled with blessings, responsibilities, and challenges. It is a time of patience and preparation for the upbringing of a righteous child. By following the teachings of Islam, seeking Allah’s guidance, and fulfilling their duties, parents can ensure that this journey is one of immense blessings and rewards. Whether through prayers, good deeds, or maintaining a strong faith, pregnancy in Islam serves as a reminder of Allah’s mercy and the beauty of motherhood.

May Allah bless all expecting mothers with righteous children who will be the comfort of their eyes and a source of continuous blessings. Ameen.