Question
Reference number: 195304 | Family and Marriage Issues | Oct. 18, 2026
Is a Wife Permitted to Seek Divorce from Her Husband Due to Inability to Have Children?
Answer
Praise be to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah, his family, his Companions, and all those who follow him.
There is no doubt that the instinct for fatherhood and motherhood is deeply rooted in human nature. The Lord of Glory has clearly referred to this in His Noble Book, saying: “Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world” (Surah al-Kahf, 18:46).
Every man and woman has the right to seek to have sons and daughters in their lives in fulfillment of this natural desire. However, when medical obstacles to conception arise, it is advisable to pursue medical care in accordance with Islamic guidelines, take the necessary steps toward treatment, and avoid rushing the results. Neither spouse should hurt the other through words or actions or wound their feelings. Rather, each should exercise patience with the other, as this is a trial from Allah. We cannot assume that either spouse does not wish to have children; rather, this is part of Allah’s decree, and He may make matters easier in due course.
However, if the situation persists for a long time and having children proves impossible, while the other spouse does not suffer from the same problem due to illness or advanced age, particularly after more than five years of treatment, the spouse who is adversely affected is permitted to seek divorce. This should be pursued calmly and respectfully, without unnecessary conflict or publicity.
If it becomes necessary to resort to the courts—a course that is not preferable but is permissible—the wife may file a case seeking judicial separation on the grounds of inability to have children. This provision is recognized in a number of Arab countries and is stipulated in their personal status laws.
