Postpartum Bleeding (Nifas) for Women Undergoing Cesarean Delivery

Source: This response is based on the rulings compiled in the book 500 Questions and Answers for Women, translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.

Question:
If a woman undergoes a cesarean delivery due to difficulty in normal childbirth, does she fall under the rulings of Nifas (postpartum bleeding), and should she refrain from prayer and fasting during the specified Nifas period?

Answer:
Yes, if blood exits from the woman’s private area due to childbirth, she is considered to be in a state of Nifas (postpartum bleeding). During this time, she is excused from prayer and fasting until she becomes pure.

However, if a woman gives birth via cesarean and no blood exits from her private area, she is not considered to be in the state of Nifas. In such a case, the following rulings apply:

1. If No Blood or Fluids Exit:
   Aisha (رضي الله عنها) commented about a woman who gave birth without any postpartum bleeding or discharge:
   
   "تِلْكَ امْرَأَةٌ طَهَّرَهَا اللَّهُ"
   (“This is a woman whom Allah has kept pure.”)
   Such a woman is required to continue her prayers and fasting, as she does not fall under the rulings of Nifas.
2. If Blood Exits:
   If blood exits from the private area during or after childbirth, it is classified as Nifas. The woman is then required to refrain from prayer and fasting until she becomes pure. Once the bleeding stops, she must perform Ghusl and resume her worship.

Summary of Rulings:​

1. If blood or other discharge exits during or after childbirth, the woman is considered in a state of Nifas. She is excused from prayer and fasting until she is pure.
2. If there is no blood or discharge, the woman is not in Nifas and must continue her prayers and fasting as usual.

This ruling is supported by the position of Hanbali scholars and other jurists.

Wallahu A'lam (And Allah knows best).

(Answered by Abdullah bin Humaid, رحمه الله)