What if I swallow blood from my gums while fasting?

Spit it out first

Bleeding gums are common, especially after brushing, flossing or when the mouth is dry from fasting. The first step is always the same:

1. Spit out the blood and saliva.
2. Rinse your mouth lightly with water if needed, and spit it all out. Don't swallow the water.
3. Press a clean tissue or gauze on the spot for a minute or two.
4. Carry on with your day.

Blood is considered impure (najis) in Islam, so you should also rinse your mouth and clean any spot on your clothes before your next prayer. See Is blood najis?

What if some goes down?

If some blood mixes with your saliva and goes down your throat without you noticing or intending it, scholars say the fast stays valid. The Quran reminds us that Allah wants ease for His servants:

The fast is not broken by involuntary swallowing of tiny amounts, which is hard to avoid. Some scholars, for example in the Hanafi school, give a simple guide. If the saliva clearly outweighs the blood, and it looks pinkish or yellowish, the fast is valid. If you clearly taste a strong flow of blood in the mouth, don't swallow it, and spit it out. Knowingly swallowing a noticeable amount of blood is treated like swallowing something else, and breaks the fast. In that case, you make up the day. There is no extra penalty (kaffarah).

If you're unsure, remember that doubt doesn't cancel a fast. Continue and complete the day. See Does swallowing my spit break my fast?

Taking care of your gums

• Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently. Brushing too hard often causes the bleeding.
• Brush and floss at suhoor and after iftar, when you can rinse freely.
• Drink water at night, since a dry mouth makes gums more fragile.
• If bleeding is frequent or heavy, see a dentist. See Can I go to the dentist while fasting?

For a wider look at cuts, nosebleeds and other kinds of bleeding, see Does bleeding break my fast?