In Islam, engaging in sexual intercourse during menstruation is prohibited due to several reasons, including religious guidelines, hygiene considerations, and respect for the sanctity of menstruation. Willfully performing intercourse during menses is a major sin. A menstruating woman who encourages her husband to have intercourse with her would be a partner in his sin. Here are some key points to understand the prohibitions and consequences:
1. Prohibitions in Islamic Law: The Quran explicitly prohibits sexual intercourse during menstruation in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:222): "And they ask you about menstruation. Say, 'It is harm, so keep away from wives during menstruation. And do not approach them until they are pure.'" This verse emphasizes the importance of abstaining from sexual relations during menstruation and waiting until a woman becomes ritually pure (after completing her menstrual cycle and undergoing ritual purification) before resuming intimate relations with her spouse.
2. Hygiene and Health Considerations: Menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by women, during which the uterus sheds its lining. Engaging in sexual intercourse during menstruation may pose health risks, including an increased likelihood of infection due to the presence of blood and a higher susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Additionally, it may cause discomfort or pain for both partners.
3. Respect for Menstruation: In Islam, menstruation is not considered impure or sinful; rather, it is viewed as a natural physiological process ordained by Allah. However, it is associated with ritual impurity (junub) that requires specific purification (ghusl) before one can perform acts of worship such as prayer and fasting. Abstaining from sexual intercourse during menstruation is a way of respecting the sanctity of this period and honoring the physical and emotional needs of women.
After a woman’s menses ends, it is recommended for her to perform ghusl before her husband has intercourse with her, because ghusl is the highest form of purification that is mentioned in the above ayah. However, it would be sufficient for her to merely wash her private parts and remove all traces of blood prior to intercourse. The latter is the opinion of many ulama, including three of the prominent tābiūn: Mujahid, Qatādah, and Ata.
4. Consequences of Disobedience: Engaging in sexual intercourse during menstruation is considered disobedience to Allah's commandments and a violation of Islamic teachings. While there are no specific worldly punishments prescribed for this act, it is regarded as sinful and may incur spiritual consequences, such as a decrease in one's spiritual well-being, a strain on marital harmony, and a weakening of the bond of trust between spouses.
In conclusion, understanding and adhering to the prohibitions against sexual intercourse during menstruation is essential for upholding the principles of Islamic ethics, maintaining marital harmony, and promoting mutual respect and consideration between spouses. It is incumbent upon Muslims to observe the guidelines prescribed by Islam and to prioritize the well-being and dignity of themselves and their partners in all aspects of their intimate relationships.