Ask Torah

Question

I'm pregnant (or nursing). Am I supposed to fast on Yom Kippur?

Published August 10, 2026

Worth asking your rabbi

1

Here's what you need to know

Whether you fast is decided between you, your doctor and your rabbi. It turns on your own situation rather than on a general rule, so this is not a question with one answer.

2

The specific rule is

Speak with your doctor about the risks to you and to the baby, then bring what your doctor says to your rabbi. Have that conversation before Yom Kippur, not during the fast.

3

What to bring to your rabbi

  • Talk to your doctor about your specific situation and any risk.
  • Bring your doctor's assessment to your rabbi.
  • Do this before Yom Kippur, while there is still time to plan.
  • If something changes during the fast, contact your rabbi rather than deciding alone.
4

What this question turns on

What this question turns on: how far along you are, how the pregnancy has been going, whether you are pregnant or nursing (those are asked separately), how you are feeling, and what your doctor says about risk to you and to the baby. Those details are the reason the answer differs from person to person, and the reason a website cannot give it to you. Health is taken seriously here. Asking is the normal thing to do, not a way of looking for leniency.

This is general educational information about Jewish law and custom, not a halachic ruling. For decisions that affect you personally, consult a qualified rabbi.

Ask your own question

Opens the asking page with your question ready — a plain-language answer with real sources.

All questions