With the Navratri season starting off today, many devotees like to observe a fast during these nine days. If you are expecting a baby soon, follow these dos and don’ts for pregnant women fasting during Navratri to keep yourself healthy!
The holy festival of Navratri has kicked off today, September 22, 2025. Navratri is a joyous festival which is celebrated for nine days across many regions in India. This Hindu festival is celebrated to honour Goddess Durga and her nine different forms. Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a specific form of Ma Durga. During this nine-day-long celebration of the divine feminine, many devotees also observe a fast. If you are expecting a baby and still want to observe the Navratri fast, you need to be extra careful. To ensure that you have a healthy and safe fasting experience, adhere to these dos and don’ts for pregnant women fasting during Navratri.
Dos for Pregnant Women Fasting During Navratri 2025
Make sure that you follow these rules while fasting for Navratri with a baby due in the year.
Consult Your Doctor: The first and most important step you should take before keeping a fast for Navratari is talking to your doctor. Get your doctor's approval and follow their advice, which is catered specially for you and your baby’s healthy growth. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day should be your utmost priority. To keep yourself hydrated, you can drink water, coconut water, buttermilk, fresh fruit juices (without added sugar), and lemon water. Have Frequent Meals: Instead of having large sit-down meals, start eating your food in smaller portions every 2 to 3 hours. This will help in keeping your blood sugar levels stable and can even prevent acidity or any weakness. Prioritise Protein and Healthy Fats: While fasting, have foods like nuts, paneer, and yoghurt, which will provide you with the essential protein and healthy fats crucial for both you and your baby's healthy development. Pay Attention to Your Body: It becomes extremely important that you look after your body and listen to what it is saying. Any signs of discomfort, dizziness, nausea, or headaches should not be ignored. If you continue to feel unwell, break your fast and contact your doctor immediately. 
Don’ts for Pregnant Women Fasting During Navratri 2025
The following things should not be done by an expecting mother during the Navratri fast!
Don't Starve Yourself: You should avoid long gaps between meals. This can lead to a drop in blood sugar, which is dangerous for a pregnant woman and her baby. Avoid Fried and Oily Foods: As tempting as these foods might look, they will not be the healthiest option for you during the Navratri fast. These friends, oily dishes can even lead to acidity or indigestion. Don't Skip Prenatal Check-ups or Medications: Just because you're fasting, you don’t need to miss out on regular doctor's appointments! Also, do not miss any prescribed medications prescribed to you by your doctor. No Strenuous Activities: Leave the heavy lifting, exercise to others as they will cause you more exertion during your fast. Stick to light activities and ensure that you take ample rest. Don't Fast if You Have Health Complications: If you are suffering from any health issues like anaemia or high blood pressure, you should not be fasting. We recommend that you follow your doctor's advice strictly. 
This Navratri, devote yourself to worshipping Goddess Durga and seek blessings from her. Follow these dos and don’ts for pregnant women fasting during Navratri. Don’t forget to take plenty of rest while observing a Navratri fast.
Image Credit: Freepik
