Fatwa ID: 02107

Answered by Ustadha Mahdiyah Siddique

Question:

I want to know about the use of long term or short term contraceptive pills/methods. Is there any restriction on the use of these tablets/methods by Shriah? 

Answer:

Below are stated some types of contraception and regarding their permissibility/restriction:

• Natural family planning: This was commonly practiced during the time of the Prophet Muhammad , and he did not universally object to it. Spouses need to be sensitive to each other’s needs for fulfillment, however, and practice this method only if both agree.

• Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms, etc.): These are designed to prevent conception, and are therefore accepted by most Muslim scholars.

• Hormonal and other methods (pill, patch, IUD, etc.): These work through a combination of preventing fertilization and interfering with implantation. Most scholars frown upon such methods except under medical supervision, particularly as they may cause harm to the woman using them.

• Surgery (vasectomy, tubal ligation, hysterectomy): Islam forbids a couple from choosing to be permanently child-free through the use of surgeries which are irreversible, unless for medical reasons.

To conclude short term contraceptive methods would be permissible however long term contraceptive methods with the intention to refrain from having children without any excuse validated by the shariah would be impermissible.

Only Allah Knows Best

Written by Ustadha Mahdiyah Siddique

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham