Question:
Some women use pills to stop their menstrual cycle during the month of Ramadan to avoid making up for missed fasts later. Is it permissible to do so? Are there any conditions or restrictions that women must adhere to in this matter?
Answer:
In my opinion, a woman should not resort to such measures. Rather, she should remain as Allah has decreed for the daughters of Adam (peace be upon him). There is divine wisdom and purpose in the natural occurrence of menstruation, which aligns with a woman’s natural disposition and bodily functions. Preventing this natural cycle may result in harmful effects on a woman's body.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
لَا ضَرَرَ وَلَا ضِرَارَ
"There should be neither harm nor reciprocating harm."
(Authentic: Sahih Sunan Ibn Majah, Al-Ahkam 13, Hadith No. 1895, 2340, narrated by Ubadah ibn Samit (RA), Sahih Al-Jami’, No. 7517, Al-Irwa’ No. 896, Al-Silsilah Al-Sahihah No. 250)
Moreover, medical experts have indicated that these pills can have adverse effects on the uterus itself. Therefore, my advice is that women should refrain from using such pills. When menstruation occurs, they should pause their fasting and prayers, and once they attain purity, they should resume them. After Ramadan, they can make up for the missed fasts.
— Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen (رحمه الله)
