Kabul women use birth control pills to delay menstruation during Ramadan, doctors warn of risks

Some women and girls in Kabul say they use birth control pills annually during Ramadan to delay their menstrual periods and fast every day of the holy month. They describe completing the fast as highly important and note that pills like the affordable and accessible 'Khushi' brand are a common method to avoid interruptions.

Several girls told Hasht-e Subh that they follow doctors' advice, while others act on recommendations from married friends. They report no major side effects so far and limited awareness of potential risks.

Maryam, a Kabul resident, said she has used Khushi pills for two or three years during Ramadan, starting after a friend's suggestion in university. "It makes fasting easier," she said, noting only minor impatience as a side effect. She emphasized the method's simplicity and reversibility.

Shamseh, another Kabul resident, used the pills on a gynecologist's advice due to frequent periods that previously weakened her during Ramadan. "I did it with a doctor's consultation, so no serious issues arose," she said, adding that some women lack awareness of consequences despite using them based on others' experiences.

Doctors warn that self-administering birth control pills to delay or stop menstruation can pose serious health risks, including menstrual irregularities, abnormal bleeding, hormonal changes and long-term ovarian complications. They stress that such medications should only be used under specialist supervision after assessing the patient's health.

Samira Shahir Rahimi, a doctor, said the practice occurs for Ramadan or Hajj, with or without medical advice. Pills containing estrogen, such as combined oral contraceptives, can temporarily delay periods but carry risks. "Women and girls should not use them arbitrarily," she said, noting doctors tailor prescriptions to individual conditions.