The debate revolves around the permissibility of vasectomy in Islam and its implications for family planning and health.
SHAH ALAM - The topic of vasectomy has recently sparked significant discussion online, especially after a man's personal experience and a former Federal Territories Mufti's view on the matter went viral.
The debate revolves around the permissibility of vasectomy in Islam and its implications for family planning and health.
What is a vasectomy?
Vasectomy is a surgical procedure for male sterilisation, involving the cutting and sealing of tubes that carry sperm. The process is low-risk and performed under local anesthesia, often considered a permanent form of birth control.
While reversals are possible, their success rate is limited and the procedure is more complex and costly than the initial surgery. Additionally, vasectomy does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.
The controversy: A personal story
The discussion on vasectomy gained traction when a man shared his experience on social media platform X about his decision to undergo the procedure after witnessing his wife suffer from the side effects of contraceptive injections.
"The procedure took 30 minutes (no scalpel) and within a day, I was 90 per cent recovered. If I want more children, sperm can still be extracted through Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)," the man wrote in a post.
However, this prompted a response from former Federal Territories Mufti Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri who clarified that the procedure is "haram" (forbidden) in Islam.
In the comment, Zulkifli said vasectomy permanently alters God's creation and undermines the sanctity of life.
He also shared a link to his portal Maktabah Al Bakri with explanations from Islamic scholars who prohibit permanent sterilisation, citing its irreversible nature and the potential disruption to the divine order of creation.
Public debate and criticism
The Islamic ruling against vasectomy has drawn criticism online. A user on X, @TheVenusDarling, questioned the fairness of expecting women to endure side effects from birth control while opposing vasectomy.
"Birth control for women comes with a host of side effects, yet the non-invasive procedure of a vasectomy is somehow deemed an affront to God? Just admit you believe only women should bear the burden and move on, LOL (laugh out loud).
"It is literally the most reliable method of birth control with minimal risk of side effects. Meanwhile, women are expected to deal with weight gain, mood swings and potential blood clots just so you can nut (have sex). Let us be realistic here.
"Why reject a simple solution that spares discomfort for everyone involved? Masculinity seems so fragile, it is baffling how men think they are fit to lead when they would crumble under even a fraction of what women endure daily. Weak.
"Do not take medical advice from people not qualified to give any," she directed her remarks to Zulkifli.
Meanwhile, Zulkifli defended his position, emphasising his reliance on expert consultation before issuing religious rulings.
"I always consult experts in their respective fields before conducting any interdisciplinary research. Nice to meet you," he responded.
Supporters of the former Mufti also weighed in, with one user, @afshahrn, stating: "Do not take advice from people on social media unless they are credible sources in real life as well. He is a former mufti. You are a colourful rainbow. Just be happy with your life."
Another user, @hatrednkaos, said: "This is what happens when you do not know how to read. The person studied extensively, but she just responds with emotions."
X user @hilmanhamed added: "But that is not medical advice? What are you even saying?"
Both @syafiqlimx and @death_stroke20 emphasised that discussions surrounding fatwa rulings extend beyond religious scholars. They clarified that experts in the relevant fields are also involved and a mufti does not issue rulings solely based on personal opinion.
Zulkifli also addressed inquiries from another user, @Orkid_Hutan, regarding the feasibility of reverse vasectomy with advancements in current medical technology.
"From our study, the current success rate of reverse vasectomy still does not provide a satisfactory solution. If there are medical experts who can share the latest studies (if any), I would greatly appreciate it," he wrote.
Islamic perspectives on family planning
Islamic teachings categorise family planning into two types:
Tanzim al-nasl: Temporary methods such as birth control pills, condoms or withdrawal (outside ejaculation), which are generally permissible under specific conditions, including mutual spousal consent and the absence of harm.
Tahdid al-nasl: Permanent methods like sterilisation or abortion, considered impermissible unless a severe health risk is involved.
A hadith narrated by Jabir bin Abdullah (RA) states: "We practised withdrawal during the Prophet’s lifetime while the Quran was being revealed" (Sahih Bukhari, 5207; Sahih Muslim, 1440). This indicates temporary methods were not prohibited.
Sheikh Atiyyah Saqr of Dar al-Ifta’ al-Misriyyah further clarified that permanent sterilisation is forbidden unless necessitated by critical health risks.
Similarly, the Islamic Fiqh Academy ruled that permanent sterilisation is only permissible in cases of necessity, judged by Islamic standards.
Medical considerations and risks
Medical experts highlight that while vasectomy is effective and low-risk, potential complications include:
The procedure’s permanence remains a critical factor, aligning with Islamic scholars’ concerns.
Vasectomy, as a form of permanent sterilisation, is widely deemed prohibited in Islam due to its irreversible alteration of Allah SWT’s creation and the sanctity of life.
Temporary methods of family planning are encouraged as alternatives, provided they meet Islamic guidelines and mutual consent.
