This upcoming Hajj, an important issue to consider for sisters (The Pill!)

It is almost time to go to hajj. Many young and old, for the first time or for their nth time, are preparing to go to hajj this year. Some newly married couples, some alone, some as families. Either way, it is a very exciting time—their ihrams, their hajj classes, their bags and accessories. Learning about such a delicate, possibly once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity can be overwhelming, and the last thing you want is to make a small mistake that renders the whole act of worship void and invalid. So we pay attention to what the instructors are telling us and what groups on social media are directing us to do and prepare for.

As a pharmacist and a student of the Islamic seminary, there is one thing I would like to point out to the many sisters who are going to hajj. It is a sensitive topic, and I will not delve into it very deeply, however awareness is paramount and education is of utmost importance in such matters. The sisters should be aware of the challenges around performing any religious duties and the purified state one must be in. This includes ablution and ghusl. However, the issue of being in a state of purity is not always in the hands of the individual; sometimes a cycle will interrupt this state and everything will crumble, wasting all your time and effort.

So many “safe and effective” pills are recommended. They are sometimes called oral contraceptive pills, birth‑control pills, hormone tablets, or simply “the pill.” Whatever you call them, they are often sold as safe, effective, and without side effects.

That is not always true. While studying pharmacy at university, we learned about this so‑called miracle of the medical world—the pill that has liberally freed women from the chains of motherhood and accidental, unwanted pregnancies.

That is one point of view. As a single, unmarried man, I decided—following the science behind them—that I would never allow my future wife to use them for any reason.

Why?
The pill works by providing the body with an extra dose of hormones called estrogen and progestogen. Without getting too deep into details, it prevents pregnancy by thinning the uterine lining, stopping ovulation, and other mechanisms. In doing so, it manipulates the natural hormonal cycle, affecting the body and mood. It can have detrimental long‑term side effects (e.g., blood clots) and some unknown risks. It may also have beneficial effects, such as acne control. I want to focus briefly on the short‑term side effects.

Your body:
Changes will occur. I won’t go into detail, but expect swelling, enlargement, pain, tenderness, and possibly breakthrough bleeding. You should be prepared, learn from others’ experiences, and discover ways they eased these issues. Some adjustments may take months—or never—until the body adapts. When should you start the pill to avoid issues and ensure your body is adjusted in time for the pilgrimage? What are the jurisprudential rulings if breakthrough bleeding or spotting occurs? These are some of the questions to consider if you decide to take them.

Your mood:
Your mood will change. The natural hormonal cycle already influences mood; altering it with external hormones can amplify mood swings. If you travel with a newly married spouse, they should also be aware of potential side effects. Mood and behavior changes may not be positive, so being prepared is better than encountering a frustrated, grumpy partner during travel.

Alternatives?
Some alternatives are less convenient, not straightforward, or irreversible. One major life‑changing option is to become pregnant and plan the pregnancy to coincide with the pilgrimage. Yes, this is a massive life‑changing decision, but for couples looking to start a family, it is an option.

Another approach is to schedule hajj when you have a stable menstrual cycle that falls within the appropriate timeframe. This may be difficult, but it remains a viable option.

While the prospect of hajj is undeniably exciting, it is crucial to approach it with careful consideration and preparation, especially regarding the use of oral contraceptive pills. Awareness of potential side effects, exploration of alternatives, and seeking guidance from knowledgeable sources are essential steps to ensure a fulfilling and spiritually rewarding pilgrimage experience. I pray you all have a successful hajj and ask that you pray for the hastening of the reappearance of the Imam of our time.