INFERTILITY AND USE OF MODERN REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES: ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

The Islamic concept of birth and death is very clear and make the foundation of Islamic society along with the Quran also provides concept about infertility. It is permitted to seek medication for infertility. Islamic law permits the use of all assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) as long as the sperm, egg, and uterus are derived from a legally married couple during their marriage. The current study aims at reviewing the concept of infertility and Modern Reproductive Technologies as a treatment in Muslim society. The concept of children bearing a trial for believers is further expanded with the concept of infertility in Quran. Infertility is regarded as a test for believers. We have examples of Prophets such as Ibrahim and Zachariya (A.S) who bore children in old age. We also have examples of many companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and even among Ummahat-ul-Momineen who faced fertility issues. 20th 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. All modern reproductive technologies are acceptable in Islamic law, as long as the sperm, ovum, and uterus come 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 law makers have provided ways for the cure of infertility keeping in lawful bounds of Islamic jurisprudence. Many Muslim countries including Pakistan lack the 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 Pakistani population regarding Modern Reproductive Technologies 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 process of law making or ruling out fatwa regarding Modern Reproductive Technologies. Keywords: Islamic Law, infertility, Modern Reproductive Technologies, Pakistan, Scientific advancements.