Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To assess the Effects of Ramadan fasting during third trimester on Doppler indices, non-stress test and perinatal outcomes. METHODS: This prospective, cross-sectional research was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology unit 1, Dr Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi from March 2024 to May 2024. The study involved 100 participants they were divided into two groups, fasting group with minimum 10 days of fasting (Group-I) and non-fasting group (Group-II). Umbilical artery systolic/diastolic ratio, pulsatility index, middle cerebral artery pulsatility index and amniotic fluid index was measured during third trimester. This was followed by for non-stress test (cardiotocography) for about 30 minutes. Both groups were followed till delivery. At delivery placental weight, baby birth weight, head circumference, length and mid arm circumference of baby were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 100 pregnant women were included. 52% (n=26) observed continuous fasting and 48% (n=24) observed intermittent fasting. Overall median age and BMI of pregnant women were 27 (IQR: 23-30) years and 25 (IQR: 24-29) kg/m(2), respectively. Amniotic fluid index was a bit higher in women who were not fasting (Median: 13.7, IQR: 11.0-15.0) as compared to those who fasted during pregnancy (Median: 12.3, IQR: 10.7-15.0). Although Doppler assessment and CTG findings did not show any significant association with the fasting status of pregnant women except median pulsatility index which was significantly higher in non-fasted group (1.0, IQR: 0.9-1.4 vs. 0.9, IQR: 0.7-1.1, p-value=0.002). Overall median weight of baby and Apgar score at 5-min were 3.0 (IQR: 2.8-3.2) kg and 8 (IQR: 8-10), respectively. The anthropometric measurements were similar in both groups. CONCLUSION: Maternal fasting during Ramadan does not adversely affect Doppler indices, amniotic fluid index, non-stress test and fetal condition.