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Is it obligatory to perform ghusl for semen when in doubt about its emission, given that its known characteristics, such as the sensation of its emission, subsequent relaxation, and its smell, are not present, and is it permissible to combine the intention for ghusl from semen with ghusl from menstruation and embracing Islam?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The questioner is suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) related to purity. The best treatment for it is to completely disregard it and seek refuge in Allah. A person afflicted with OCD who listens to their obsessions will only increase them and lead themselves to madness. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, commanded against it. A person with OCD can resort to medication and behavioral therapy. Doubting the emission of semen while awake does not necessitate ghusl (ritual bath). As for finding wetness after sleep, one must review the three cases previously explained. A person with OCD should not adopt precautionary measures, as this will only increase their obsessions and cause them distress. It is permissible to combine the intention of ghusl for janabah (major ritual impurity) and ghusl for menstruation in one single bath. The ghusl for embracing Islam is not prescribed for the questioner because she is already a Muslim. These obsessions are from Satan, intended to cause her hardship.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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