AN ANALYSIS ON THE LEGAL REGULATION OF REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH RIGHT UNDER ISLAMIC LAW

Abstract

Reproductive health rights entail the right to proper health care of pregnancy, fetus, and newborn till weaning as well as ensuring the fitness of the mother both physically and mentally for bearing the next child. Reproductive health ensures social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity in all matters relating to the reproductive system. Paying attention to reproductive health right at the national and international level are the essential steps in providing social and family health with an emphasis on women`s health. Women`s health is compromised not only by lack of medical knowledge but by infringement of women`s human rights. Poor women who lack adequate food, basic health care, or modern contraceptive suffer grave consequences.  These findings reflect the divergent views of Islamic scholars on family planning where some scholars consider it legal while others equate it to infanticide. Each of these scholars gave a reason in support of their contention this paper, therefore, examines reproductive health, reproductive right, and means to have access to information on reproductive choices. The paper also examines the right to make decisions concerning reproduction free from discrimination, coercion, or violence. Suggestions have been made on ways to take care of the health needs of women and children as well as educating women on the reproductive rights. The paper also suggests that the ministry of health should organize workshops and seminars for sensitization of rural dwellers, health personnel should be adequately trained for effective delivery of the permissible family planning services to the communities.  Nurses should be motivated to accept posting to all communities for the education and delivery of family planning services to the people.