Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
In this fatwa:
In Islam, sexual intercourse during menstruation is strictly prohibited, as stated in the Qur’an (2:222). However, other forms of intimacy between spouses may be permitted, though scholars differ on direct stimulation of the private area during this time. If climax occurs, Ghusl becomes obligatory, though it may be delayed until the menstruation period ends.
Responding to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:
You are correct that sexual intercourse during menstruation is strictly forbidden, and scholars unanimously agree on this. Allah says: “They ask you about menstruation. Say: it is harm, so keep away from women during menstruation.” (Al-Baqarah 2:222)
Many may wonder which forms of intimacy are permissible during menstruation. While intercourse is forbidden, other forms such as kissing or touching are generally allowed, but scholars advise caution regarding direct contact with blood or private areas.
Other forms of intimacy between spouses are generally permitted. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Do everything except intercourse.”(Muslim)
However, scholars have differing opinions on direct stimulation between the navel and the knees:
- Hanafi, Maliki, and Shafi`i scholars discourage or prohibit it as a precaution.
- Hanbali scholars and some others permit it as long as intercourse is avoided.
Many scholars recommend avoiding direct stimulation of the private area during menstruation, especially where there may still be blood, to help the audience feel supported and mindful of their comfort and cleanliness.
If the wife reaches climax, Ghusl becomes obligatory; however, she may delay it until her menstruation ends and then perform one Ghusl, which many scholars consider permissible, helping the audience feel reassured about flexibility in practice. If the husband ejaculates but she does not climax, Ghusl is not required for her.
For further clarification, see these fatwas:
- Why Can’t You Have Sex with Your Wife during Menses?
- When to Resume Prayer after Abnormal Extension of Menses
- After How Many Days of Period Can You Pray in Islam?
- What to Do If Your Period Is Longer Than Usual
- When to Start Praying after Period
- Is Oral Sex Haram in Islam?
Almighty Allah knows best.
