The states of menstruation (hayd) and postnatal bleeding (nifas) are natural conditions determined by the decree of Allah. Accepting them reflects contentment with divine decree, which is an essential aspect of servitude. This attitude brings a person closer to submitting to the will of Allah, which is why in spiritual development the term “the content soul” (an-nafs al-radiyya) is regarded as one of the stages of the soul.
Therefore, a woman whose menstrual cycle coincides with the month of Ramadan should not feel saddened by this, but rather accept it with contentment. She should understand that this is also part of divine decree and act accordingly. Even though she may be unable to perform certain acts of worship such as fasting, prayer, or recitation of the Qur’an, she can still engage in many other forms of worship, such as listening to Qur’an recitation, making supplications, engaging in remembrance of Allah (dhikr), giving charity, hosting iftar meals, reading reflective and spiritual works, and many other good deeds.
Taking medication to delay menstruation constitutes an interference in the natural cycle. This may lead to medical complications such as hormonal imbalance, and it may also imply a lack of contentment with divine decree. Therefore, unless there is a necessity, it is not considered appropriate to medically delay menstruation.
In conclusion, menstruation is a natural condition that should not be altered unless there is a valid necessity. The idea that a menstruating woman is deprived of the spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan is an incomplete understanding. If the aim is to seek the pleasure of Allah, she does not lose any spiritual reward in this state
