Pregnancy and Eid: A Healthy Mom's Guide to Celebrating Safely

In short: During Eid, avoid exhaustion, share out the tasks and get enough rest and sleep. Cut down on sweets and rich food, eat plenty of vegetables and fruit, drink water, take gentle walks, wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and do not stop your medication. Watch for warning signs such as severe dizziness, abdominal pain and abnormal discharge.

Eid is a wonderful opportunity for family gatherings and celebrations, but for pregnant women, it can bring a few extra challenges. With some simple planning, you can enjoy the holiday while keeping yourself and your baby healthy and comfortable.

• Don’t overexert yourself. Eid is full of visits and preparations, but don’t try to do everything yourself. Take sufficient breaks and delegate tasks to those around you.
• Pay attention to the type of food you eat. During Eid, sweets and fatty foods are abundant, so:
• Eat moderate amounts of cakes and maamoul.
• Avoid undercooked foods.
• Focus on vegetables and fruits.

• If you have gestational diabetes or diabetes, keep to your meal plan, check your blood sugar as advised, and limit sweets and sugary drinks.

Can cakes and maamoul cause labor pains?

In some cases, they can cause abdominal pain similar to labor pains due to:

• Bloating and gas. Fat and sugar contribute to slow digestion and abdominal bloating. This pain can be intense and intermittent, thus being mistaken for labor pains.

• Flare-up of existing bowel sensitivity (such as irritable bowel syndrome) after rich, fatty or very sweet food.

• Increased bowel movements.

• Dehydration with sugar. Excessive sugar intake without drinking enough water can increase muscle tension and may lead to mild uterine contractions.

• Drink plenty of water.

Dehydration can cause fatigue and dizziness, especially with movement and travel. Make sure to drink water regularly throughout the day.

• Move in moderation.

Light walking is very beneficial: it improves blood circulation and reduces swelling. However, avoid standing or walking for long periods.

• Choose comfortable clothing.

Avoid tight clothing. Choose comfortable shoes to prevent swollen feet. Cotton clothing is best, especially in warm weather.

• Don’t neglect sleep.

Staying up late during the holidays can increase fatigue, so:

• Try to get enough sleep.
• Go to sleep when you feel tired, even during the day.
• Pay attention to symptoms.

If you experience:

• Severe dizziness.
• Abdominal pain.
• Bleeding or abnormal discharge.

• Your baby moving less than usual, fluid leaking from the vagina, regular painful tightenings, or a severe headache, blurred vision or sudden swelling of the face and hands.

Don’t hesitate to see a doctor immediately.

8. Take your medications as prescribed and do not stop any treatment without consulting your doctor.

9. Enjoy the holiday without stress.

The holiday is a time of joy, so try to relax and avoid stress and pressure. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy during the holiday season, our clinic team is here to help — don’t hesitate to reach out or schedule a check-up for extra peace of mind.

Dr Najeeb Layyous F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist