Menstruation, also known as a period, is a natural process in a woman’s life. In Islam, women are exempted from performing prayers (Salah) and fasting (Sawm) during their menstrual cycle. However, it is obligatory for women to make up (Qaza) the missed fasts after the period ends (Addurrul Mukhtar: 1/300-301).

If a woman’s period begins while she is performing Salah, the prayer for that particular time is considered void. Even if she completes the prayer unknowingly, it will not count, and there is no requirement to make up that specific prayer.

According to the renowned scholar Tabeebi Ibrahim Nakha’i (RA), making up the missed prayer that coincides with the start of menstruation is not obligatory (Kitabul Asl: 1/286; Raddul Mukhtar: 1/291).

The ruling is different for voluntary (Nafl) prayers. If a woman’s menstruation begins during Nafl prayers, she is required to make up the missed Nafl prayer later (Khulasatul Fatawa: 1/232; Al-Bahrur Ra’iq: 1/205; Fatawa Hindiyah: 1/38; Addurrul Mukhtar: 1/291).

It is important to note that women do not lose the reward (Sawab) of missed prayers or fasting due to menstruation. Sahih Bukhari narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
“If a person is sick or traveling, they will receive the same reward as if they were healthy or not traveling” (Bukhari: 2996).

Similarly, women who are unable to perform Salah or fasting due to menstruation or other valid reasons are still rewarded by Allah, as their incapacity is considered legitimate.

May Allah grant both men and women the strength and understanding to follow Islamic teachings properly. Ameen.