or on a journey, and women who are menstruating, pregnant, or nursing are permitted to break the fast, but this must be made up by paying a Fidyah which is essentially the Iftar and Suhur for a fasting person who requires such financial help. Muslim scholars have stated that observing the fast is forbidden for menstruating women. However, when a woman's period has ceased, she must bathe and continue fasting. Any fasts broken or missed due to menstruation must be made up whenever she can before the next month of Ramadan (not all Muslims believe missing fasts due to menstruation must be made up). Women must fast at times when not menstruating, as the Quran indicates that all religious duties are ordained for both men and women. The reason for this is because the Quran refers to menstruation as "Say: It is a discomfort(Menstruation)" According to Nouman Ali Khan an Islamic speaker in the United States the reason for this prohibition is because of the pain associated with it. A Muslim woman may still do dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and make dua (supplication to Allah) during this time. Fasting is obligatory for a person if they fulfill five conditions: They are Muslims. They are accountable (Islamic past the age of puberty). They are able to fast. They are settled (not traveling). There are no impediments to fasting such as sickness, extreme pain from injury, breastfeeding, or pregnancy. Breaking the fast and the consequences During Ramadan, if one unintentionally breaks the fast by eating or drinking, then they must continue fasting for the rest of the day and the fast remains valid. Those who intentionally break the fast by eating or drinking, they have to make up for that and also repent. For breaking fast by having sexual intercourse, the consequences are: Free a slave, and if that is not possible. Fast for two consecutive Hijri (moon) months, and if that's not possible. Feed or clothe sixty people in need. During voluntary fasts, if one unintentionally breaks the fast then they may continue for the rest of the day and the fast remains valid. If one intentionally breaks the fast there is no sin on them, because it is only voluntary. Breaking oaths and consequences If an an oath is given and circumstances dictate that it must be broken (or if the one giving the oath deliberately breaks it), one must