Is it permissible to abort a fetus due to the presence of a cartilage issue causing pain to my wife, and out of concern for the medication's effect on the fetus, along with the possibility of increased pain during pregnancy?

Abortion is forbidden, even if the fetus is in the nuṭfah stage, according to the more attested opinion. Scholars have differed regarding the ruling on aborting a fetus before the ensoulment. It is established among scholars that it is permissible to take a concession (rukhṣah) out of necessity, not merely out of desire. One must be cautious not to be lenient in the matter of concessions, and it is imperative to consult trustworthy physicians.