The question of abortion due to medical hardship is one of the most sensitive issues in Islamic bioethics. It often involves balancing the sanctity of potential life against the physical suffering of the mother.

In this specific case, the inquiry concerns a wife suffering from Hemangioma—a vascular anomaly that causes swelling and pain, which reportedly worsens with the hormonal changes of pregnancy. The couple asks if this potential deterioration justifies an abortion should a new pregnancy occur, despite the use of contraceptives.

The Principle of Contextual Rulings

Islamic Law (Shari’ah) places great emphasis on assessing harm (Darar) at the specific time it occurs, rather than based on hypothetical scenarios.

In response to this specific query, scholars emphasize that a Fatwa (legal ruling) regarding abortion cannot be issued preemptively.

Why the Ruling is Deferred:

  • Changing Circumstances: Rulings often depend on the specific medical reality at the moment of the event. The condition of the wife may change; she may be cured, or the medical understanding of her condition may evolve.
  • Assessment of Harm: The decision to permit abortion usually hinges on a “lesser of two evils” calculation. This calculation can only be made when the pregnancy actually exists and the specific threat to the mother’s health can be measured by doctors in real-time.

Therefore, experts advise that the question be asked only if and when pregnancy occurs, so the specific level of hardship can be evaluated against the stage of the pregnancy.

Hope and Divine Decree

Scholars also direct the couple toward hope and reliance on Allah (Tawakkul). Medical prognoses are based on statistics and current patterns, but they are not absolute.

  • Possibility of Cure: One should not rule out the mercy of Allah in granting a cure or a remission of symptoms before another pregnancy occurs.
  • Supplication: The spiritual approach is to ask for well-being rather than anticipating the need for a concession like abortion.

Conclusion

It is not Islamically appropriate to decide on an abortion for a future, hypothetical pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs despite contraception, the couple should consult trustworthy Muslim doctors and scholars at that time to assess the specific risk and pain levels before making a decision.