Can Muslims get a vasectomy or tubal ligation?

Why permanent methods are different

The Companions practised family planning. Jabir said: "We used to practice coitus interruptus while the Qur'an was being revealed" (Sahih al-Bukhari 5208). Scholars use this to allow temporary, reversible methods. See Can I use birth control as a Muslim?

Permanent sterilization is another matter, because it removes the ability to have children for good. Scholars point to several reasons:

• Islam values children and the continuation of the family. The Prophet ﷺ told a man to marry women who are loving and prolific (Sunan Abi Dawud 2050).
• Sa'd reported that the Prophet ﷺ forbade 'Uthman ibn Maz'un from giving up marriage and its pleasures, and that if he had allowed it, the Companions "would have gotten ourselves castrated" (Sahih al-Bukhari 5073). Scholars take from this that permanently ending the ability to have children is not encouraged.
• Some scholars also say that permanently disabling a healthy body part changes Allah's creation, which the Quran warns against (Quran 4:119), unless there is a real need.
• Life can change. Children may die or a marriage may end, and the choice cannot always be reversed.

When scholars allow it

Many scholars make an exception for real medical necessity. They usually require that:

• Trusted, qualified doctors say another pregnancy would seriously harm the mother's life or health, for example after repeated caesarean sections or with a serious illness.
• Temporary methods are unsafe or ineffective for her.
• Both spouses agree.

Convenience is not enough, and nor is fear of poverty. The Quran says: "Do not kill your children for fear of poverty. We provide for them and for you" (Quran 17:31). The verse is about killing children, but scholars apply the same trust in Allah's provision to worries about cost.

If you have already had the procedure

• If it was done before you became Muslim: nothing is held against you, and your marriage is valid. Become Muslim and move forward.
• If it was done for a medical reason: there is no sin, since necessity changes the ruling.
• If you regret it: ask a doctor whether a reversal is possible. Many scholars do not object to reversing a procedure, since it restores a natural ability.
• If you now see your choice differently: sincerely ask Allah for forgiveness. He accepts repentance.

If a reversal is not possible and you would still like more children, some couples consider IVF using their own sperm and egg. See Is IVF allowed in Islam?

Making the decision

This is a personal medical and religious decision, so don't take it alone. Talk with your spouse, your doctor and a trusted imam. If a doctor offers a tubal ligation during a caesarean, think about it beforehand rather than on the day. There are many reversible options, such as coils, pills and condoms, so you may not need a permanent one.