Advice concerning the issue of women and doctors
Question What is your opinion on the issue of woman and doctors and the advice for Muslim sisters and parents concerning this matter? Praise be to Allah. Undoubtedly the issue of women and doctors is an important matter, and in fact it causes a great deal of trouble. But if Allaah blesses a woman with…
Question
Praise be to Allah.
Undoubtedly the issue of women and doctors is an important
matter, and in fact it causes a great deal of trouble. But if Allaah blesses
a woman with taqwa (piety) and insight, then she will take precautions and
pay attention to this matter. She should not be alone with the doctor and
the doctor should not be alone with her. The authorities [in Saudi Arabia]
have issued orders and directives stating that this is not allowed. Women
must also pay attention to this matter and should try to seek competent
female doctors. If they find a female doctor, then praise be to Allaah and
there is no need for a male doctor. But if a woman needs to see a male
doctor because there are no female doctors, then in the case of necessity
there is nothing wrong with her being examined and treated by him. This is
one of the things that are permitted in case of necessity, but if she has to
uncover part of her body then she should not do that if she is alone with
the doctor, rather it should be in the presence of her mahram or husband, if
it involves uncovering something ordinary like the head, hand or foot, etc.
If her ‘awrah must be uncovered then she should have her husband with her,
if she is married, or another woman, which is better and is more on the safe
side; or there should be one or two nurses present. But if another woman,
apart from the nurse, can be with her, this is better and is more on the
safe side and more removed from suspicion. But as for being alone with the
doctor, this is not permitted.
