What are the rulings concerning the waiting period ('iddah) for a wife whose husband passed away, given that she had seen blood four times during the four months prior to his death, and she was using birth control pills but sometimes forgot to take them? Are these bleedings considered menstruation and do they negate the possibility of pregnancy? Is it permissible for the woman in 'iddah to stay in her parents' home in another country, given that her husband did not have a house and she fears the presence of strangers in his family's home? Is she obligated to adhere to the local custom of wearing black or dark clothing for life, or can she wear whatever she wishes after the 'iddah? What is the ruling on wearing colored or floral clothing during the 'iddah, and must all her clothes be dark, including her undergarments?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported Sep 2, 2026
The waiting period (iddah) for a widow: If she is pregnant, it ends upon delivery. If she is not pregnant, it is four months and ten days, starting from the husband's death. If she is suspicious about pregnancy, she should wait until the doubt is removed.
The woman observing the waiting period must remain in her husband's home unless there is harm, and it is forbidden for her to wear adorned clothing. Wearing black is not a condition. After the waiting period ends, she is permitted to wear whatever she wishes, and she is not obligated to observe common custom.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported
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