Should we choose a Muslim over a non-Muslim to perform an IVF procedure, even if they are less efficient and experienced?
A resolution was issued by the Islamic Fiqh Academy regarding in-vitro fertilization (IVF), in which it initially approved the method of fertilizing the egg and sperm from the spouses outside the womb, and then implanting the zygote in the wife's womb, but with strict conditions and utmost necessity to avoid ambiguities. The resolution also included general rulings concerning a woman exposing herself to other than her husband: (a) A woman is not permitted to expose herself except for a lawful purpose. (b) Treatment is considered a lawful purpose, provided it is limited to the extent of necessity. (c) The treating physician must be a Muslim woman if possible, then a non-Muslim woman, then a trustworthy Muslim male physician, then a non-Muslim male physician, in this order. Solitude between the treating physician and the patient is forbidden unless a mahram is present. Based on this, it is not permissible for the questioner to go to a male physician if a competent female physician is available, even if the male physician is more competent. Similarly, it is not permissible to go to a non-Muslim physician if a competent Muslim physician is available.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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