Dear Rabbi H.
I am 30 weeks pregnant with twins, and am living in Australia. Someone I spoke to recommended I contact your institution being both a rabbi and medical doctor.
I have had a non complicated pregnancy so far, and am expecting DCDA twins. I am 27 and have had one very healthy child at 40 weeks. I am reluctant to fast because I am already at risk of premature delivery.
I have spoken to a rav here who was not so familiar with the risks of fasting on women pregnant with twins and he asked me to speak to my doctor and get back to him. I am seeing her on Wednesday but imagine she will just say it is too risky to fast at all ring completely unfamiliar with the idea of fasting.
If you could advise I would be so grateful,
Blessings,
A H
In the 30th week of a twin pregnancy one does not fast even in Yom Kippur, and of course in Tisha B'Av you cannot fast in this condition
The reason for this is that the fast may cause premature contractions and labor – posing a real threat to the life of the twins. Therefore this year on Tisha B'Av you should eat and drink as usual.
Comment:
In a similar condition on Yom Kippur the recommendation is to drink in small doses ("LeShuirin"). On Tisha B'Av, however, you must drink the normal amounts for your condition. Regarding eating – you may eat less than usual.
As per our conversation about fragile X carriers, I am submitting my question to you in writing so that you can respond with the guidance
לכבוד הרב ד"ר מ.הלפרין שליט"א שו"ב אודה לך באם תשלח לי את מאמרו של הרב נובירט שליט"א מספר הכינוס, הדן בשימוש בקונדום למניעת הידבקות ממחלות
