The preservation of human species is unquestionably the primary objective of marriage, and such preservation of the species requires continued reproduction. Accordingly, Islam encourages having children, and has blessed both male and female offspring. However, it allows Muslims to plan their families due to valid reasons and recognized necessities.
However, if couples feel that they are not prepared to shoulder the heavy responsibilities of parenting because of special circumstances, it is allowed to resort to safe methods of contraception in order to delay pregnancy. However, it should be known that it is allowed only as a temporary measure.
Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states: This is an area where you should ask your own Islamic conscience before making a final decision, for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Consult your own conscience, even if they give you a verdict; even if they give you a verdict.” In other words, if you are reasonably certain that you are presently unable and unprepared to take on the responsibility of rearing children, then you are allowed to delay pregnancy by resorting to reliable methods until such time that you are able. But let me point out that it cannot be a permanent policy. Therefore, it is important for you to come off the pills as soon as your situation improves.
Having said this, I must point out that as Muslims we must not be overly materialistic in our judgments and attitudes to life. That would certainly be the case if we were to imagine that we would be having children only when we have accumulated so many riches or such bank balances or amenities, etc. Such attitudes are definitely considered wrong in Islam, for as Muslims we ought to trust in Allah as the Provider while trying our best to seek a lawful source of living. Allah says, [If they are poor, Allah of His bounty will enrich them. And Allah is Vast, Knowing] (An-Nur 24: 32).