Is it advisable for a pregnant woman to fast in the last trimester?

Q: We are Muslims. My wife is pregnant and this is the 16th week going on. Her due date of delivery is 5th of December. During the last month of her pregnancy our fasting month will start and for the whole month we are supposed to fast. Is it advisable for my wife to fast for the whole month

A:Since the third trimester is considered to be the most important time with regards to the maximum growth spurt of the fetus, fasting the whole day (even without water!) will definitely curtail the maximum expected growth potential of the unborn baby. Since I happen to have a fair share of Muslim patients, on a personal note, I advise them not to fast for the sake of the baby. But, of course, opinions will definitely vary on this controversial point.