Can I wear hijab during surgery or in hospital?

On the ward

As a patient, you can wear your own scarf and modest clothes in bed. Hospitals in the UK, Europe and the USA respect religious dress, and most are happy to:

• let you wear a scarf with your gown, or a long-sleeved top over it;
• give you a second gown worn backwards like a robe;
• pull the curtain or knock before entering;
• send a female nurse or doctor when one is available.

Just ask. Writing "I wear hijab, please knock and allow me to cover" on the whiteboard by your bed works well.

In the operating theatre

For infection control, your own scarf usually can't go into surgery. Instead, ask for a disposable theatre cap or a sterile hijab; many NHS trusts and US hospitals now stock them. During general anaesthesia you won't control what's uncovered, and that's not a sin. Islam doesn't burden you beyond what you can do:

The Prophet ﷺ said, "Make things easy and do not make them difficult" (Sahih al-Bukhari 69). Scholars of all four schools agree that a doctor may see and touch what's needed for treatment, even if he's a man, when a suitable woman isn't available. See Can a male doctor see me without my hijab?

Scans, X-rays and tests

Metal pins and some fabrics can interfere with X-rays and MRI scans. Use a cotton scarf with no pins or magnets, or ask for a gown-style cover. Staff can usually let you keep your head covered for most scans.

Prayer and comfort in hospital

You can pray in bed, sitting or lying down, with tayammum if water is hard to use. Keep a light, slip-on scarf within reach so you can cover quickly when visitors or staff come in. And don't forget the beautiful duas for illness. See What dua can I say when I'm sick?