Hajj During Pregnancy

Hajj pregnant

Hajj and Umrah During Pregnancy

Firstly, I want to reassure you: I myself performed Hajj while five and a half months pregnant. Like many, I was very apprehensive, but alhamdulillah, everything went very well. The intense heat wasn’t a problem because I spent very little time outdoors. During the rites, there is almost always shade, air conditioning, and refreshments. I had a budget package, so I was in a shared room with three other people.

My main advice is to take advantage of all the facilities available to you: wheelchair access, delegation of certain rites, priority access, etc.

General Advice

  1. Vaccination

The ACWY meningitis vaccine is mandatory for Hajj. I was apprehensive about getting vaccinated while pregnant, but since Hajj is obligatory, I put my faith in Allah and got vaccinated three weeks before departure.

  1. Compression stockings

They are highly recommended for air travel and long journeys. You can ask your doctor for a prescription.

  1. Bus journeys

Journeys can be very long due to security checks. If possible, take the train and book in advance (seats fill up quickly).

Also, remember to inform your guide of your pregnancy so they can assign you a more comfortable seat.

  1. Queues

Whether for buses, meals, or restrooms, the lines can be long. Don’t hesitate to ask pilgrims, staff, or guides to go first. Standing for too long can be tiring.

  1. Medication

If you are bringing medication, make sure it is safe to use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.

  1. Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs with pushers are available at the Haram. There are official locations inside with regulated prices.

This is a great convenience that should not be overlooked. The price was approximately 150 riyals for the tawaf and 150 for the sa’i.

  1. Restrooms

The lines can be very long. Often, other pilgrims will let you go ahead, but if your pregnancy is not visible, don’t hesitate to ask.

It may be helpful to bring protective items (such as adult diapers), especially for longer walking rites like the stoning.

  1. Food

Here too, the lines can be long. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for priority service.

  1. Illness

Try to avoid contact with people who are coughing, as many people get sick, and for you, as a pregnant woman, the consequences can be more serious.

  1. Clothing

Wear clothes made of natural and breathable materials, such as cotton or linen. Avoid polyester. Wear shoes that are easy to put on and take off to avoid bending over too much. Also, don’t wear new shoes, as you can’t be sure of their comfort.

  1. Rites
  • Tawaf

I performed two tawafs on foot and the last one in a wheelchair. The second was particularly difficult because of the crowds. For the last one, I preferred to preserve my energy.

  • Sa’i (the journey between Saffa and Marwa)

I performed both sa’is in a wheelchair to preserve my strength after the tawaf.

  • The days spent in Mina

You spend the whole day in air-conditioned tents. There will be many of you, and you’ll be given a blanket, a pillow, etc., but I advise you to bring an extra blanket and even a sweater because it can get very cold with the air conditioning.

  • The stoning of the pillars (Jamarat)

I only participated in the stoning on the first day, as I wanted to experience it. It’s important to arrange a wheelchair in advance with your tour operator if you need one. I hadn’t done so and had difficulty finding one there.

I went there in a wheelchair and walked back, which was manageable. The route is relatively well-maintained (shaded areas, misting stations, fountains).

For the following days, I delegated this ritual, which is permitted.

  • Arafat

We were accommodated in comfortable tents. As in Mina, you have to queue to collect your meals, but drinks and snacks are available continuously.

  • Muzdalifah

Those considered vulnerable can leave earlier, which I did. What bothered me during this ritual was the extreme pollution from the constant flow of buses. I therefore advise you to bring a pollution mask.

Outside of the rituals

In Mecca, I stayed in the Aziziya district, quite far from the Haram. I therefore chose not to go there outside of the rituals in order to preserve my energy. In Medina, the hotel was located 5 minutes from the Prophet’s Mosque, making it easier for me to go there, but I went just a few times.

Things to bring

  • Plastic flip-flops (practical in Mina)
  • Cleansing wipes (especially for shared bathrooms)
  • Nuts and dried fruit
  • Sanitary products (like adult diapers)
  • Large insulated water bottle that attaches around the neck
  • Blanket (useful because of the air conditioning in the rooms and in Mina)
  • Hat
  • Cotton or linen clothing only

If some of you find out you’re pregnant late and are hesitant to make the pilgrimage, I personally advise you to go if you don’t have a difficult pregnancy. Everything is made easy there. Alhamdulillah. Pray istikhara and make many supplications (du’as).