This issue is contentious among scholars: one group considers it as one of the things that break the fast, while others do not think so. The differences of opinion are due to the different reports attributed to the Prophet (peace be upon him) on this issue. He has been reported saying, “Both the one who practices blood- cupping and the one receiving it break their fasts.” On the other hand, Ibn Abbas says that the Prophet (peace be upon him) did undergo blood-cupping while fasting.

The majority who allow the practice do so by relying on the reported practice of the Prophet and his companions, as we know many used to undergo it while fasting.

This group considers the previous report as being abrogated.

While endorsing the majority view on this, some scholars have rightly said it would be better if one has a choice to postpone it until after iftar – especially if it leaves a person weak and unable to continue the fast. The same rule applies to donating blood while fasting.

Allah Almighty knows best.