Yes, a pregnant woman can perform Salah (Islamic prayer).
While menstruation exempts women from obligatory prayers, pregnancy does not. According to the provided reference, a pregnant woman is still obligated to perform Salah, even during labor (though not during postnatal bleeding).
Performing Salah During Pregnancy
Here are some key points to consider regarding performing Salah while pregnant:
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Obligation: Pregnancy does not remove the obligation of performing Salah.
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During Labor: A woman is still required to pray during labor, except for the period of postnatal bleeding.
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Adjustments: If a woman cannot make prostrations (sujood) due to pregnancy or discomfort, she can stand.
- If standing is also difficult, she can pray while sitting.
- If she can't sit, she can pray while lying down.
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Flexibility: Islam provides flexibility for those facing difficulties in performing Salah. It is essential to pray to the best of one's ability.
Summary
| Condition | Salah Obligation | Allowed Adjustments |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy | Obligatory | Standing, sitting, or lying down if needed |
| Menstruation | Not Obligatory | None |
| Postnatal Bleeding | Not Obligatory | None |
Therefore, a pregnant woman must perform Salah, but she may modify her prayer to accommodate her physical condition, such as praying while sitting or lying down if prostrating is difficult. This flexibility is part of the ease afforded by Islam in times of difficulty.
