The question of abortion in cases where a genetic defect is suspected is a sensitive and complex issue in Islamic jurisprudence. Addressing it requires careful consideration of foundational religious principles, medical realities, and the diverse scholarly opinions within Islamic law.
At the core of this discussion lies a fundamental principle of Islam: the preservation and protection of human life from its beginning until its natural end. This principle serves as the starting point for all deliberations related to abortion and underscores the seriousness with which such decisions must be approached.
Another important consideration is the uncertainty surrounding medical diagnoses, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy. While modern medical assessments are valuable and often highly accurate, they are ultimately based on probabilities rather than absolute certainty. Diagnoses of genetic abnormalities may later prove to be incorrect. This does not undermine medical expertise but highlights the need for caution when contemplating an irreversible decision such as terminating a pregnancy.
To better understand the Islamic position on abortion, scholars generally divide pregnancy into three stages: from conception to 40 days, from 40 days to 120 days, and from 120 days until birth. These stages are significant because scholarly rulings often differ depending on the phase of pregnancy.
Within this framework, the four major Sunni schools of thought offer nuanced perspectives. The Hanafi school generally permits abortion before 120 days and shows relative flexibility regarding the reasons for doing so. The Maliki school is the strictest, with most scholars prohibiting abortion from the very beginning of pregnancy, though some consider it disliked rather than forbidden during the first 40 days. The Shafi‘i school allows abortion within the first 40 days with the consent of both spouses; beyond that point, it is forbidden except in cases of necessity, with some scholars extending limited permission up to 120 days if there is a valid excuse. The Hanbali school permits abortion before 120 days but considers it forbidden thereafter.
The central point of disagreement among scholars concerns when human life is considered to begin. This debate is closely tied to interpretations of ensoulment (rūḥ), traditionally associated with 120 days of pregnancy. Scholars who believe life begins at conception do not permit abortion at any stage. Others view ensoulment as the decisive moment, after which abortion is strictly prohibited. Within each school, individual scholars may lean toward one interpretation or the other.
Despite these differences, there is a broad consensus that abortion should not be undertaken lightly or without a compelling and legitimate reason. Preservation of pregnancy remains the general rule, with limited allowances made in very early stages and under serious circumstances. After 120 days, abortion is unanimously forbidden except when the continuation of pregnancy poses a direct threat to the mother’s life.
Therefore, if a woman believes there is a legitimate reason to consider abortion—such as a suspected severe genetic condition—she should consult a trustworthy and qualified medical committee as early as possible. Any decision must be made with caution, sound medical advice, and awareness of religious guidance. After four months of pregnancy, termination is not permissible except to save the mother’s life.
