What is the ruling on aborting a fetus diagnosed with Beta-thalassemia on the 103rd day of pregnancy, given that doctors have recommended it and stated that the soul is breathed into the fetus after 120 days, and that a delay poses a risk to the mother's life? And is it true that the soul is breathed into the fetus after 120 days?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
The sound Sunnah indicates that the ensoulment of the fetus occurs after 120 days. Abortion is not permissible after ensoulment unless reliable, specialized doctors determine that the fetus's continued presence would cause the mother's death, and after all means to preserve her life have been exhausted. As for before ensoulment, it is permissible to abort the fetus if it is severely malformed and untreatable, and this is confirmed by a report from a medical committee of trustworthy, specialized doctors, and based on the parents' request.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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