Is it permissible to prevent one's wife from conceiving as a way of disciplining her for her sharp tongue, or to ascertain the desire to continue the marriage with her, especially since she yearns for childbirth?
Marriage was legislated for tranquility, psychological stability, and the procreation of offspring, based on the Almighty's saying: "And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy," and based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Marry the affectionate and fertile, for I will boast of your numbers before the nations."
The husband must treat his wife well, for the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The best of you are those who are best to their wives, and I am the best of you to my wives." And remember that what you dislike in her is balanced by good character, for the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "A believing man should not hate a believing woman; if he dislikes one of her characteristics, he will be pleased with another." As for a wife's disobedience (nushuz), its remedy is explained in Fatwa No. 38421. However, not having children is not a remedy, because it goes against the objective of Islamic law for marriage, and the wife has a right to have children, which it is not permissible to prevent her from.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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