Muslim principles on family planning

M.A.The aim of this study is to examine the principles which scholars have developed in regard to family planning in Islam. The thesis concentrates on three main areas of family planning viz., contraception, abortion and artificial reproduction. Prior to these three areas being discussed in detail, a brief analysis of the concept of marriage is outlined. Birth control from the Islamic Juridical perspective is discussed, wherein the various contraceptive techniques and devices is illuminated. Views expressed by classical authorities, medical professionals and contemporary experts in regards to the permissibility or prohibition of contraception is given. The study thereafter proceeds to make an appraisal of abortion in Islam. Islamically, abortion is generally prohibited, but it is permitted under extreme extenuating circumstances. This is outlined. The question of artificial reproduction in the case of infertility is discussed whereby scientists seem to have usurped the authority of God, contrary to the teachings of Islam. However, under certain stringent conditions the permissibility of artificial insemination is analyzed. Finally, certain aspects which could not be covered in the scope of this thesis have been left over for future research