What is the ruling on my refusing to have intercourse with my husband after a hysterectomy, based on the doctor's recommendation to keep the matter a secret from him?

It is not permissible for a married couple to completely cut off progeny permanently. However, if they agree to prevent pregnancy for a temporary period, there is no objection to it, such as to consider the mother's health or to breastfeed children, and so on. If the cutting off of progeny is out of necessity, then there is no objection to it, whether temporary or permanent, based on the Almighty's saying: ﴿But whoever is forced, neither desiring [it] nor transgressing, there is no sin upon him﴾.

Accordingly, if the wife is not compelled to undergo a hysterectomy, which leads to the cutting off of progeny, she is sinful and must repent. However, if she is compelled, there is no sin upon her, and trustworthy doctors determine this. It is not permissible for the wife to refuse intimacy except in cases of harm, and she must inform her husband of this; otherwise, obedience to the husband in his rights is obligatory.