Can Women Perform Hajj During Menstruation?
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory once in a lifetime for every financially and physically capable Muslim. However, for Muslim women, a commonly asked yet significant question arises—“Can Hajj be performed during menstruation?”
To answer this properly, we must understand the deep teachings of Islam, especially from the lens of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), authentic hadiths, and the experiences of the Sahabiyat (female companions of the Prophet ﷺ). This blog offers a comprehensive guideline based on those teachings, so women can mentally and practically prepare for Hajj with confidence.
What Does Islam Say About Hajj and Menstruation?
Menstruation (hayd) is a natural biological process, yet in Islamic law, it is considered a temporary state of ritual impurity. Therefore, some acts of worship become forbidden during this period.
Acts that are prohibited during menstruation:
- Performing salah (prayer)
- Fasting
- Touching or reciting the Qur’an (aloud)
- Entering Masjid al-Haram
- Performing Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba)
📌 Especially, Tawaf al-Ifadah is a pillar (rukn) of Hajj. Hajj is not valid without it.
Proof from Hadith:
In a sahih hadith narrated by Aisha (RA), she said:
“I went for Hajj with the Prophet ﷺ. During Hajj, I got my period and I began to cry. The Prophet ﷺ said, ‘This is something Allah has decreed for the daughters of Adam. You may perform all the rituals of Hajj except for Tawaf until you become pure.’”
(Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
🔗 Read full hadith on Sunnah.com
Which Hajj Rituals Can Be Performed During Menstruation?
| Ritual | Permitted? | Explanation |
| Wearing Ihram | ✅ Yes | Menstruation does not prevent it |
| Making intention (niyyah) | ✅ Yes | Niyyah is an internal action |
| Standing in Arafah | ✅ Yes | No restriction |
| Overnight stay in Muzdalifah | ✅ Yes | Collecting pebbles is also allowed |
| Rami (stoning the pillars) | ✅ Yes | No purity required |
| Sa’i between Safa and Marwah | ✅ Yes* | *Better after tawaf, but allowed if needed |
| Tawaf al-Ifadah | ❌ No | Must wait until purified |
Hajj 2025: New Rules and What Women Should Know
Every year, the Saudi government revises Hajj registration, visa, and health protocols. For 2025, some updates include:
Key changes:
- Pre-registration is mandatory
- Health certificates are required
- Traveling without a mahram is discouraged
Women’s checklist:
- Choose a reputable tour operator with women-friendly services
- Plan around your menstrual cycle if possible
- Consult a doctor if considering menstrual delay pills
- Strengthen spiritual and mental preparedness
How to Prepare for Hajj During Menstruation
🧕 While choosing a Hajj package:
- Select one that allows 10–15 days’ stay
- Ensure the package includes buffer days in Makkah
- Opt for a group with a female religious guide, if possible
💊 Menstrual Delay Medications:
- Pills like Primolut N can help delay periods
- Must be taken under medical and religious guidance
- Be aware of side effects and safety concerns
🧳 What to pack:
- Sanitary pads, medication
- Extra clothes and gauze
- Paper tissues, disinfectant wipes
- Energy bars and a refillable water bottle
Common Challenges & Their Solutions
1. Mental stress
Challenge: Anxiety about not being able to complete Hajj
Solution: Increase dhikr and du’a, trust in Allah’s mercy
2. Time constraints
Challenge: Menstruation ends after group’s departure
Solution: Plan to stay longer in Makkah ahead of time
3. Physical discomfort
Challenge: Fatigue and cramps during rituals
Solution: Stay hydrated, rest often, eat lightly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I start Hajj if menstruation begins just before the journey?
A: Yes, you can wear Ihram and begin Hajj. Just delay Tawaf until you are pure.
Q: Can I read the Qur’an during menstruation?
A: You can read silently or from a mobile app without touching the mushaf.
Q: Can I stay back to do Tawaf if the group is leaving?
A: Yes, but coordinate with your tour operator or offer dam (sacrificial penalty) if missed.
Spiritual Tips & Encouragement
Menstruation doesn’t prevent you from connecting with Allah. It’s a natural part of life and a mercy from your Creator. During this time, you can still:
- Make abundant du’a
- Reflect and make sincere tawbah
- Engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah)
- Help others in your group
- Educate and support fellow sisters
💡 Remember: Allah judges your intentions, efforts, and sincerity—not only the actions.
Conclusion
Menstruation is not a barrier to performing Hajj. Islam recognizes and respects women’s natural cycles and offers flexibility. With the right knowledge, preparation, and tawakkul (reliance on Allah), women can enjoy a fulfilling and accepted Hajj—even during menstruation.
📣 What Should You Do Now?
- ✅ Learn the rulings regarding menstruation and Hajj
- ✅ Speak with both your doctor and a knowledgeable scholar
- ✅ Choose a reliable, women-friendly Hajj agency
- ✅ Share this blog with friends and family who might benefit
