Maintaining balanced nutrition and adequate hydration during non-fasting hours is essential for couples undergoing IVF in Ramadan.
Specialists at Orchid Fertility Clinic Dubai advise that Suhoor and Iftar meals include whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats, alongside key fertility nutrients such as folic acid, iron, vitamin D, and omega-3s.
Avoiding caffeine, sugary drinks, fried foods, and excessive salt helps reduce dehydration and fatigue.
Dr. Partha Sarathi Das, Medical Director and Consultant in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Orchid Fertility, during a consultation with a patient
24 February 2026; Dubai, UAE – As the holy month of Ramadan is underway, many couples undergoing fertility treatment are seeking clarity on whether IVF can safely continue while fasting. Specialists at Orchid Fertility Clinic Dubai confirm that for many patients, treatment does not necessarily need to be postponed. With individualized medical supervision, proper hydration, and carefully adjusted medication schedules, IVF can often proceed safely during Ramadan.
While Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection and renewal, it also brings noticeable lifestyle changes. Meal timings shift, fluid intake is limited during daylight hours, and sleep patterns may be altered. These adjustments can affect overall wellbeing, including reproductive health. However, fasting itself does not automatically reduce fertility or IVF success rates when managed responsibly and under medical guidance.
“Many patients believe they must delay IVF during Ramadan, but that isn’t always the case,” explains Dr. Partha Sarathi Das, Medical Director and Consultant in Reproductive Medicine and Infertility at Orchid Fertility Clinic, Dubai. “With thoughtful planning, most stages of IVF can continue safely. We adjust medication timings around fasting hours and closely monitor each patient’s response to ensure treatment remains both safe and effective.”
During the ovarian stimulation phase, many women are able to fast provided they maintain adequate fluid intake between Iftar and Suhoor and follow their injection schedule precisely. In most cases, IVF medications can be administered after sunset or before dawn without affecting outcomes. Routine monitoring appointments, including blood tests and ultrasound scans, can also continue as scheduled.
There are, however, certain situations where flexibility is important. On the day of egg retrieval or embryo transfer, fasting may be discouraged due to the need for hydration, rest, and recovery. If a patient experiences dizziness, fatigue, or signs of dehydration, doctors advise prioritizing health. Religious exemptions for medical reasons are recognized, and patients are encouraged to make informed decisions in consultation with their physician and, if they wish, their religious advisor.
Hydration and balanced nutrition play a central role during IVF. In women, dehydration and disrupted sleep may influence hormonal balance and ovarian response. In men, reduced fluid intake can temporarily affect semen volume and sperm motility. These effects are generally manageable when couples focus on proper nutrition and sufficient fluid intake during non-fasting hours.
Practical Tips for Couples Undergoing IVF during Ramadan
Specialists at Orchid Fertility Clinic Dubai advise couples to follow these key recommendations to maintain fertility health during Ramadan:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor to support hormonal balance, egg quality, and sperm health.
- Balanced Meals: Include lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats.
- Essential Nutrients: Ensure intake of folic acid, iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid excess caffeine, sugary beverages, fried foods, and high-salt meals to reduce dehydration and fatigue.
- Medication Timing: Schedule IVF injections and oral medications before Suhoor or after Iftar, as advised by your doctor.
- Monitoring Appointments: Routine blood tests and scans can continue safely, with adjustments if necessary.
- When to Pause Fasting: On days of egg retrieval or embryo transfer, fasting may be discouraged to allow for hydration, rest, and recovery. Religious exemptions for medical reasons are recognized.
- Sleep and Stress Management: Aim for 7–8 hours of rest and manage stress to support hormonal stability.
- Special Considerations: Women with PCOS or other metabolic conditions may require closer monitoring, while men should focus on antioxidant-rich foods to maintain sperm quality.
“Ramadan is a time of faith, hope, and reflection,” Dr. Das adds. “For couples trying to conceive, it can also be an emotional journey. Our role is to guide them with clear, practical advice so they can balance their spiritual commitments with their treatment safely.”
Orchid Fertility Clinic continues to offer supportive scheduling and tailored care throughout the holy month to ensure patients receive consistent medical guidance at every stage of their fertility journey.
For more information, please visit: https://orchid-fertility.com
DHA Disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice; patients should consult a licensed healthcare professional before making any nutrition or fasting decisions during Ramadan.
ENDS