Using the Siwak During the Day in Ramadan
Question: What is the ruling on using the siwak during the daytime in Ramadan?
Answer: Using the siwak (tooth-stick) while fasting in Ramadan is a recommended sunnah. The siwak is a strongly emphasized practice both for the fasting person and otherwise. According to the sounder opinion, it is recommended for the fasting person to use the siwak throughout the entire day. In fact, one of the finest qualities of the fasting person, as mentioned in the hadith, is the use of the siwak; hence it is encouraged at any hour of the day.
Some scholars hold that the concession to use the siwak applies only before the sun passes the zenith, and that after midday one should refrain from it. A report is cited in support of that view, but it is not authentically established from the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him. What is authentically established is that he used the siwak at all times of the day, and this does not affect the validity of the fast.
It must be stressed, however, that the fasting person must not swallow any particles from the siwak itself, nor any matter the siwak dislodges from his gums or teeth. He must spit these out, and doing so does not harm his fast. Rather, he should cleanse and freshen his mouth with the siwak, removing any residue therein. This is unobjectionable and is indeed recommended.
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Taking Menstrual-Suppressing Pills in Ramadan
Question: Is it permissible for a woman to take pills that prevent menstruation so that she can fast all of Ramadan without interruption?