Should a Woman in Nifās Remain Confined to Her Home? Islamic Ruling Source:
This article is derived from the book 500 Questions & Answers for Women, a compilation of Fatawa by the Scholars of the Haramain. Translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.
❖ Question:
Is it obligatory for a woman in the state of postnatal bleeding (nifās) to remain confined to her home until her bleeding ends?
❖ Answer:
A woman experiencing nifās has the same ruling as any other woman in terms of leaving her home.
✔ If she has a genuine need, there is no harm in her leaving the house during nifās.
✘ However, when there is no necessity, it is preferable—for her and all women—to stay within their homes.
Qur'anic Basis:
Allah ﷻ says:
"وَقَرْنَ فِي بُيُوتِكُنَّ وَلَا تَبَرَّجْنَ تَبَرُّجَ الْجَاهِلِيَّةِ الْأُولَىٰ"
[Al-Aḥzāb: 33]
“And remain in your homes and do not display yourselves like the display of the former days of ignorance.”
✔ This verse encourages modesty and staying at home, especially when there is no valid reason to go out.
(Fatwa by: Shaykh ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz ibn ʿAbdullāh ibn Bāz رحمه الله)❖ Summary:
- No, it is not obligatory for a woman in nifās to remain confined at home.
She may leave the house if there is a need (e.g., medical care, important errands).
However, staying at home is more virtuous and preferred for all women when unnecessary to go out.
