Hijama for Women: Benefits, Hormonal Health and Safety

Hijama (wet cupping) has been practised for centuries as a Sunnah and a traditional therapy. Many women seek Hijama during different stages of life, including for menstrual discomfort and after childbirth, and more women are training to provide it safely to other women.

This guide covers why women seek Hijama, what current research can and cannot confirm, timing and safety considerations specific to women, and how to train as a practitioner. Nadine, who wrote this guide, specialises in female health, reproductive health and fertility.

The Sunnah basis

The Prophet ﷺ was cupped himself and said: "The best medicines you may treat yourselves with are cupping and sea incense." (Sahih al-Bukhari 5696). For many Muslim women, following the Sunnah is the first reason to include Hijama in their care, alongside any physical benefit they hope for.

Benefits women seek from Hijama

Women commonly seek Hijama for:

Menstrual discomfort, lower back pain and pelvic tension
Neck, shoulder and upper back tension, including from carrying and feeding a baby
Relaxation and general wellbeing during demanding stages of life
Following the Sunnah as part of a holistic approach to health

Hijama for hormonal imbalance, PCOS and irregular periods: what the research says

Research on cupping specifically for women's health is limited. A small number of trials have looked at cupping for period pain, with some encouraging results, but the studies are few and small. Broader systematic reviews suggest cupping may reduce some types of chronic musculoskeletal pain in the short term.

There is currently no good evidence that Hijama balances hormones, treats PCOS or improves fertility, and we do not claim that it does. Women with irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, suspected PCOS or fertility concerns should see their doctor. Hijama can sit alongside medical care, never in place of it.

Postpartum timing and breastfeeding

After childbirth, many women look for ways to recover and ease muscular tension. In our practice, we recommend waiting at least 12 weeks after birth before considering Hijama, and checking that the mother has recovered well from the birth.

If a woman is breastfeeding, Hijama may still be performed when needed, but never on the breast area. Other points on the body are used instead, keeping the session safe and comfortable.

Safety considerations for female clients

Every client needs careful screening before Hijama. For women this includes asking about pregnancy, the timing of the menstrual cycle, recent childbirth, anaemia, and any blood-thinning or other medication. Hijama needs particular care during pregnancy and should only be performed, if at all, with appropriate knowledge and guidance. These are exactly the areas where a well-trained practitioner protects her clients.

Why Hijama is a valuable profession for women

Many women prefer to be treated by a female practitioner for reasons of privacy, modesty and comfort.
Women can treat women exclusively, with no need for free mixing.
It aligns with Islamic principles of modesty and offers flexible working hours.
It allows women to earn a halal income while serving their community with a Sunnah practice.

How to train in Hijama for women's wellbeing

To serve women safely, look for a course that includes:

IPHM accreditation – recognised by an international professional body
A starter kit – professional equipment to practise with
A practical assessment – so your technique is checked, not assumed
Client screening and aftercare – including considerations specific to women
Lifetime access – so you can revisit the lessons whenever you need them
Ongoing mentorship – so you have someone to ask once you start practising

Our Online Hijama Course includes all of the above. It is IPHM-accredited, self-paced and available anywhere, and Nadine personally supports students with questions about treating female clients. For more on choosing a course, read how to choose the right Hijama course and how to become a certified cupping therapist.

Enrol in the Online Hijama Course

Written by Nadine

Co-Founder, Reviving Hijama Academy

Nadine has been passionate about health and natural healing her entire adult life, with a particular expertise in female health, reproductive health, and fertility. She co-founded Reviving Hijama Academy alongside her husband Taher, and personally manages ongoing student support — answering questions daily and mentoring graduates as they build their own Hijama practices.