Reproductive Challenges and Assisted Technologies: An Islamic Historical and Contemporary Perspective

Abstract

The Islamic concepts of birth and death are very clear and make the foundation of Islam. Society along with the Quran also provides concept about infertility. The current study aims to review the historical concept of infertility and ARTs as a treatment for infertility in an Islamic society. The concept of children bearing a trial for believers is further expanded with the concept of infertility in the Quran. Infertility is regarded as a test for believers. We have examples of Prophets such as Ibraheem and Zachariya who bore children in old age. We also have examples of many companions of Prophet Muhamad (PBUH) and even among Umahatul Momineen who faced fertility issues. The 20^th century was the century of great scientific advancements. Now it is possible to treat infertility in many ways. Assisted reproductive technology is a group of infertility treatments. In Islamic law, all ARTs are allowed, provided that the source of the sperm, ovum, and uterus comes from a legally and currently married couple. Surrogacy in any form is forbidden.

Donation of sperm, ovum, and uterus from a third party is not allowed. Islamic lawmakers have provided ways for the cure of infertility keeping in lawful bounds of Islamic jurisprudence. Many Muslim countries including Pakistan lack advanced IVF technologies. Where available these facilities are very expensive. Moreover, there is a great misconception about the legality and religious stance on various ART techniques. For this purpose, religious beliefs, knowledge, and attitudes of the Pakistani population regarding ARTs and infertility should be assessed. Islamic religious scholars need to play their part in this regard through their expertise, assessment of religious beliefs, knowledge, and attitude would be a first step towards the process of law-making or ruling out fatwa regarding ARTs.