Decision of the Islamic Fiqh Academy concerning Male Physicians Treating Female Patients
Decision No. 81

In the name of Allah, Lord of all worlds. May blessings and peace be upon our master Muhammad, the Seal of the Prophets, and upon his family and companions.

The Council of the Islamic Fiqh Academy, convening in its eighth session in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, from 1 to 7 Muharram 1414 AH (21–27 June 1993 CE),

having examined the papers submitted to the Academy on the subject “A Man Treating a Woman,” and after listening to the discussions that took place regarding it,

has resolved the following:

1 – The basic rule is that, whenever a qualified female physician is available, she must undertake the examination and treatment of the female patient. If such a physician is not available, a trustworthy non-Muslim female physician may do so. Should neither be available, the task may be performed by a Muslim male physician; and if no Muslim male physician is available, a non-Muslim male physician may take his place, provided that he looks at no more of the woman’s body than is necessary for diagnosing and treating the illness, does not exceed that limit, averts his gaze as much as possible, and conducts the treatment in the presence of a maḥram relative, the husband, or a trustworthy woman, so as to avoid unlawful seclusion.

2 – The Academy recommends that the health authorities exert their utmost efforts to encourage women to enter the field of medical sciences and to specialize in all its branches—especially obstetrics and gynecology—because of the scarcity of women in these medical specialties, so that there will be no need to resort to the exceptional ruling. Allah knows best.