Fatwa ID: 07160

Answered by: Alimah Zakiratul Hoque

Question:

I have continues menstrual bleeding problem since past 6 years because of hormonal imbalance and that too very heavy at times. Usually I bleed for 17 days and have 7 days of purity.

Doctors have tried medications, contraceptives, marina and I am on herbal medication since a year too which has helped my bleeding settle from 17 days to 11 to 12 days but now doctor has given an option of endometrial ablation on a condition that they do sterilisation with it . Ovaries in endometrial ablation stays intact and so they recommend (insist I should say) sterilisation after burning the endometrial lining as it could lead to dangerous pregnancy afterwards. Because sterilisation in Islam is haram, I am confused as what decision to make.

Your prompt response would be highly appreciated as I need to give my decision soon.

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

As I understand it, endometrial ablation is being suggested for the menstrual bleeding problem and the doctors are insisting on sterilisation because pregnancy after the procedure will likely be dangerous.

If the menstrual bleeding problem does not seriously affect your life or permanent health, then to go through with sterilisation for the endometrial ablation would not be permissible. However, if it seriously affects your health or life, then it would be permissible as there is a principle in Fiqh which states that:

الضرورات تبيح المحظورات

“Necessities make prohibitions permissible” (Qawaaid Fiqhiyyah, Pg 43)

Only Allah knows best.

Written by Alimah Zakiratul Hoque

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham