Getting your first period can bring many questions.
You may wonder, “Is this normal?” “Can I still pray?” “What about fasting?” “What should I do?”
For a Muslim girl, menstruation is a natural part of life and an important subject to understand.
Islam does not treat menstruation as something dirty or shameful.
Allah says: “And they ask you about menstruation. Say, ‘It is harm, so keep away from women during menstruation and do not approach them until they are pure.’” Qur’an 2:222*
The verse addresses the physical condition of menstruation; it does not mean that the woman herself is impure or unclean.
WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR WORSHIP?
During menstruation, a woman does not perform salah.
She also does not fast during her menstrual period.
However, missed Ramadan fasts are made up later, while missed prayers are not made up.
This is based on the guidance of the Prophet ﷺ and the report of Aishah (رضي الله عنها), who explained that menstruating women were instructed to make up the fasts but not the prayers.
CAN YOU STILL REMEMBER ALLAH?
Absolutely.
Menstruation does not mean that you are cut off from Allah.
You can make du’a, do dhikr, listen to beneficial Islamic reminders, learn about Islam and do many other good deeds.
You can still say:
SubhanAllah.
Alhamdulillah.
Allahu Akbar.
La ilaha illallah.
You can also ask Allah for forgiveness and make personal du’a.
WHAT ABOUT THE QUR’AN?
There are differences of scholarly opinion regarding reciting Qur’an during menstruation and touching a physical mushaf.
Because of these differences, a young Muslim girl should follow the guidance of a trusted scholar or teacher according to the school of thought she follows.
Digital Qur’an applications also involve different scholarly discussions, so ask someone knowledgeable if you are unsure.
DON’T FEEL ASHAMED
Your period does not make you less of a Muslim.
You have not become dirty, worthless or distant from Allah.
It is a natural condition created by Allah, and Islam gives women specific concessions and rules during this time.
HEART CHECK
Your first period may feel confusing, but you do not have to face it without knowledge.
Learn your deen. Ask questions. Take care of your body. And remember that menstruation does not reduce your worth in the sight of Allah.
3SIXTYISLAM
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