In Islamic jurisprudence, “Nifas” refers to the postnatal bleeding that a woman experiences following childbirth. Similar to menstruation, Nifas has specific religious rules and guidelines regarding ritual purity and religious practices. 

Here are some key aspects of Nifas in Islam:

1. Duration: The length of Nifas varies among women, but it can last up to 40 days according to traditional Islamic guidelines. The bleeding may stop earlier, and in such cases, the rules associated with Nifas apply until the bleeding ceases.
2. Exemption from Religious Duties: During Nifas, women are exempt from certain religious obligations, similar to menstruation:
   • Prayer (Salah): Women do not perform the five daily prayers during this period. These missed prayers are not required to be made up afterward.
   • Fasting: Women are not obliged to fast during Nifas, including during Ramadan. Missed fasts during this time should be made up at a later date once Nifas ends and physical strength returns.
3. Ritual Purity and Ghusl: Once the postnatal bleeding stops, women are required to perform a ritual purification (ghusl) before resuming prayers, fasting, and other religious activities. Ghusl signifies the return to a state of ritual purity.
4. Prohibition on Sexual Intercourse: Sexual intercourse with the husband is prohibited during Nifas. Full intimacy can resume after the bleeding stops and the ritual purification (ghusl) is performed.
5. Caring for Physical and Emotional Health: The Nifas period is also a time of physical recovery after childbirth. Islamic teachings emphasize care and support for the new mother to ensure her well-being, provide time for adjusting to the baby’s arrival, and promote physical and emotional healing.
6. Cultural and Legal Variations: Interpretations regarding the practices during Nifas can vary culturally and among different Islamic jurisprudential schools. Flexibility and understanding are encouraged, especially regarding individual health needs and circumstances.
7. Spiritual Well-being: During Nifas, women can engage in other forms of worship, such as dhikr (remembrance of Allah), dua (supplication), and seeking religious knowledge, to maintain spiritual connection despite being exempt from certain practices.

The rules of Nifas reflect a balance between religious obligations and natural biological processes, emphasizing compassion and the importance of health and well-being for new mothers in Islam.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.