Women’s and Children’s Health in Islam – Qur’an & Hadith Guidance
Islam is a complete way of life. It not only guides us in worship but also in personal health, family care, and community well-being. Among the most important groups in society are women and children. Women carry the responsibility of motherhood and family support, while children are blessings (rahmah) and trusts (amanah) from Allah ﷻ. Their physical, emotional, and spiritual health directly affects the strength of the entire Ummah.
📑 Table of Contents
- Importance of Health in Islam
- Women’s Health in Islam
- Maternal Care and Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding & Nutrition
- Children’s Health in Islam
- Child Rights in Islam
- Modern Health Guidelines
- Emotional & Spiritual Care
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
1. Importance of Health in Islam
Health is one of the greatest blessings of Allah. Without health, even worship becomes difficult. Islam teaches that health is an amanah (trust) given to us, and we must protect it. The Qur’an and Hadith highlight that taking care of health is part of faith.
Hadith (Arabic):
عَنْ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا، قَالَ النَّبِيُّ ﷺ:
"نِعْمَتَانِ مَغْبُونٌ فِيهِمَا كَثِيرٌ مِنَ النَّاسِ: الصِّحَّةُ وَالْفَرَاغُ" (صحيح البخاري، 6412)
Translation:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “There are two blessings which many people waste: health and free time.” (Sahih Bukhari, 6412)
This Hadith makes it clear that neglecting health is like losing one of Allah’s greatest gifts. When women and children are healthy, the family and society remain strong. But when their health is neglected, entire communities suffer.
Qur’an (Arabic):
يَا بَنِي آدَمَ خُذُوا زِينَتَكُمْ عِندَ كُلِّ مَسْجِدٍ وَكُلُوا وَاشْرَبُوا وَلَا تُسْرِفُوا ۚ إِنَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ الْمُسْرِفِينَ (الأعراف 7:31)
Translation:
“O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but do not be excessive. Indeed, He does not like those who commit excess.” (Surah Al-A’raf 7:31)
This verse gives two important lessons: First, that our body should be cared for with dignity; and second, that moderation in food and drink is the key to health. Overeating, junk food, or neglecting proper nutrition leads to harm, which Islam discourages.
Modern Medical Perspective: Science confirms that most modern diseases like diabetes, heart problems, and obesity come from unhealthy diets and lack of balance. The Qur’anic principle of moderation directly protects from such illnesses. Medical experts also emphasize preventive care—regular exercise, healthy food, and hygiene—all of which are aligned with Islamic guidance.
Practical Tips for Families:
- Encourage balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, and halal protein.
- Teach children about moderation early, avoiding excessive sugar and fast food.
- Schedule regular health check-ups for women and children.
- Promote physical activities like walking, light exercise, or sports.
Thus, Islam and modern science both stress that health is not just a personal matter—it is a religious duty and a foundation for worship, education, and family strength.
2. Women’s Health in Islam
Women’s health is highly valued in Islam because women are the backbone of families and society. Their health affects future generations. Islam emphasizes dignity, care, and respect for women’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Qur’an (Arabic):
وَلَهُنَّ مِثْلُ الَّذِي عَلَيْهِنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ (البقرة 2:228)
Translation:
“And due to them [women] is similar to what is expected of them, according to what is reasonable.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:228)
This verse reflects that women have equal rights and responsibilities, including the right to health and care. The Prophet ﷺ also highlighted the importance of treating women with kindness, which includes safeguarding their health.
Hadith (Arabic):
قال رسول الله ﷺ: "خَيْرُكُمْ خَيْرُكُمْ لِأَهْلِهِ وَأَنَا خَيْرُكُمْ لِأَهْلِي" (الترمذي 3895)
Translation:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family.” (Tirmidhi, 3895)
Modern Medical Perspective: Women’s health includes menstrual health, nutrition, mental well-being, and access to medical care. Neglecting these areas can lead to long-term health issues. Today, doctors stress regular checkups, reproductive health awareness, and balanced diets as essential for women’s well-being.
Practical Tips:
- Encourage women to attend regular health screenings and checkups.
- Provide family support during menstruation, pregnancy, and postnatal recovery.
- Promote balanced diets with iron, calcium, and vitamins to prevent weakness.
- Encourage women to engage in moderate exercise like walking or yoga.
Islam places women’s health as a family responsibility, and modern science proves that women’s care improves community well-being.
3. Maternal Care and Pregnancy
Pregnancy is one of the most honorable stages of a woman’s life in Islam. Allah ﷻ has given mothers a special rank due to the hardships they endure during pregnancy and childbirth.
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| Pregnant Muslim mother in hijab |
Qur’an (Arabic):
وَوَصَّيْنَا الْإِنسَانَ بِوَالِدَيْهِ حَمَلَتْهُ أُمُّهُ وَهْنًا عَلَىٰ وَهْنٍ وَفِصَالُهُ فِي عَامَيْنِ (لقمان 31:14)
Translation:
“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years.” (Surah Luqman 31:14)
This verse beautifully explains the struggles of pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it clear that a mother’s sacrifice is unmatched. This is why the Prophet ﷺ said that mothers deserve three times more respect than fathers.
Hadith (Arabic):
جاء رجل إلى رسول الله ﷺ فقال: من أحق الناس بحسن صحابتي؟ قال: "أمك" قال: ثم من؟ قال: "أمك" قال: ثم من؟ قال: "أمك" قال: ثم من؟ قال: "أبوك" (صحيح البخاري 5971، صحيح مسلم 2548)
Translation:
A man asked the Prophet ﷺ: “Who is most deserving of my good company?” The Prophet ﷺ replied: “Your mother.” He asked again: “Then who?” He replied: “Your mother.” He asked again: “Then who?” He replied: “Your mother.” He asked: “Then who?” He said: “Your father.” (Bukhari, 5971; Muslim, 2548)
Modern Medical Perspective: During pregnancy, women need proper nutrition, regular medical checkups, and emotional support. Doctors recommend folic acid, iron supplements, and rest for a safe pregnancy. Stress and malnutrition can harm both mother and child, proving the importance of family support during this stage.
Practical Tips:
- Ensure pregnant women eat iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and red meat.
- Encourage adequate hydration and balanced meals with fruits and vegetables.
- Provide emotional support and reduce stress at home.
- Promote safe, light physical activity such as walking to improve health.
- Encourage regular doctor visits and prenatal care.
Islamic teachings and medical science both emphasize that pregnancy care is not just the woman’s responsibility—it is the family’s collective duty. Supporting women in this stage leads to healthier mothers, stronger children, and a blessed household.
4. Breastfeeding & Nutrition
Breastfeeding is highly emphasized in Islam because it provides natural nutrition and strengthens the bond between mother and child. The Qur’an sets a recommended duration of two years for breastfeeding, which modern medicine also recognizes as highly beneficial for infants’ immunity and growth.
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| Breastfeeding or Nutrition in Islam |
Qur’an (Arabic):
وَالْوَالِدَاتُ يُرْضِعْنَ أَوْلَادَهُنَّ حَوْلَيْنِ كَامِلَيْنِ لِمَنْ أَرَادَ أَنْ يُتِمَّ الرَّضَاعَةَ (البقرة 2:233)
Translation:
“Mothers shall breastfeed their children for two whole years, for those who wish to complete the term of suckling.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:233)
This verse highlights that breastfeeding is both a natural right of the child and a responsibility of the mother, provided her health allows. It ensures physical nourishment and emotional closeness.
Modern Medical Perspective: Doctors strongly recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months, as it builds immunity, protects against infections, and provides ideal nutrition. Studies also show breastfeeding lowers risks of diabetes and heart disease later in life.
Practical Tips:
- Encourage exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, then introduce healthy solid foods.
- Mothers should maintain a balanced diet to improve milk quality.
- Avoid formula milk unless medically necessary.
- Fathers and family members should support mothers emotionally and physically during nursing.
5. Children’s Health in Islam
Children are seen as a blessing and trust (amanah) in Islam. Their health, education, and upbringing are a sacred duty. Neglecting children’s health is considered sinful because it leads to weakness in the next generation of the Ummah.
Hadith (Arabic):
قال رسول الله ﷺ: "كُلُّكُمْ رَاعٍ وَكُلُّكُمْ مَسْئُولٌ عَنْ رَعِيَّتِهِ" (صحيح البخاري 893، صحيح مسلم 1829)
Translation:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Every one of you is a shepherd, and every one of you will be asked about his flock.” (Bukhari 893; Muslim 1829)
This Hadith shows that parents are responsible for ensuring their children’s well-being, including health, education, and emotional care.
Modern Medical Perspective: Children’s health requires vaccinations, proper hygiene, nutrition, and emotional development. Doctors stress early medical checkups and a safe environment for growth. Poor health in childhood can affect education and future productivity.
Practical Tips:
- Ensure children receive all essential vaccinations on time.
- Encourage outdoor play and physical activity instead of excess screen time.
- Provide balanced meals rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables.
- Teach children hygiene habits like handwashing and brushing teeth.
6. Child Rights in Islam
Islam protects children’s rights even before birth, such as the right to life, care, and inheritance. After birth, children have rights to breastfeeding, love, education, and good upbringing.
Qur’an (Arabic):
وَلَا تَقْتُلُوا أَوْلَادَكُمْ خَشْيَةَ إِمْلَاقٍ ۖ نَحْنُ نَرْزُقُهُمْ وَإِيَّاكُمْ (الإسراء 17:31)
Translation:
“And do not kill your children out of poverty; We provide for them and for you.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:31)
This verse prohibits neglect and abuse, emphasizing that children are under Allah’s protection, and their care is obligatory.
Hadith (Arabic):
قال رسول الله ﷺ: "مَنْ لَا يَرْحَمْ صَغِيرَنَا وَيَعْرِفْ حَقَّ كَبِيرِنَا فَلَيْسَ مِنَّا" (أحمد 7073، الترمذي 1920)
Translation:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever does not show mercy to our young and respect to our elders is not from us.” (Ahmad 7073; Tirmidhi 1920)
Modern Medical Perspective: Recognizing children’s rights today means ensuring safe environments, equal education, and protection from abuse. Pediatricians emphasize parental care, proper sleep, and emotional security as essential for child development.
Practical Tips:
- Provide children with nutritious food and a safe home environment.
- Encourage regular schooling and Islamic education.
- Protect children from emotional and physical abuse.
- Offer love, kindness, and time to strengthen bonds with them.
7. Modern Health Guidelines for Families
While Islam has already laid the foundation of health care through Qur’an and Sunnah, modern medical science provides practical methods to maintain health. Both complement each other and guide families toward a balanced lifestyle.
Islamic Perspective: The Prophet ﷺ emphasized cleanliness, moderation in diet, and seeking treatment. He said:
"تَدَاوَوْا عِبَادَ اللَّهِ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَمْ يَضَعْ دَاءً إِلَّا وَضَعَ لَهُ دَوَاءً" (أبو داود 3855)
Translation:
“O servants of Allah, seek treatment, for Allah has not created a disease except that He has also created its cure.” (Abu Dawood 3855)
Modern Medical Perspective: Science agrees that prevention and early treatment save lives. Regular health checkups, vaccinations, balanced diets, and exercise protect against major illnesses. Lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are preventable with the same moderation Islam teaches.
Practical Tips for Families:
- Schedule regular doctor visits for women and children.
- Keep vaccinations updated to prevent common childhood diseases.
- Follow hygiene practices such as handwashing, clean drinking water, and oral care.
- Use Islamic remedies like honey and black seed (Nigella sativa), supported by medical benefits.
8. Emotional & Spiritual Care
Health is not only physical; it also includes emotional and spiritual well-being. Islam balances body, mind, and soul. Emotional neglect leads to stress, anxiety, and depression, which affect women and children the most.
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| Emotional and spiritual well-being |
Qur’an (Arabic):
أَلَا بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ الْقُلُوبُ (الرعد 13:28)
Translation:
“Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28)
Islamic Guidance: Reciting Qur’an, making dua, and maintaining patience strengthen emotional health. Family love and mercy also play a big role, as the Prophet ﷺ showed affection to children and kindness to women.
Modern Medical Perspective: Psychologists confirm that stress directly affects physical health. Women, especially mothers, face emotional challenges like postpartum depression. Children may suffer anxiety if neglected. Modern therapy, combined with Islamic spiritual practices, ensures balance.
Practical Tips:
- Encourage daily Qur’an recitation and duas for inner peace.
- Spend quality time as a family to strengthen emotional bonds.
- Provide counseling and support for women facing stress or depression.
- Promote healthy sleep patterns for children and adults alike.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What does Islam say about women’s health?
Islam considers women’s health a family responsibility. The Qur’an and Hadith emphasize kindness, dignity, and support for women, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, and motherhood. Modern science also confirms that women’s health determines family strength.
Q2: Is breastfeeding compulsory in Islam?
Breastfeeding is highly recommended in the Qur’an for up to two years (Al-Baqarah 2:233). It is considered a child’s right if the mother is able. Medical experts also recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months to boost immunity and growth.
Q3: How can parents ensure children’s health in Islam?
Parents must provide halal food, education, healthcare, and emotional support. Neglecting children is considered sinful. Modern medicine adds that children need vaccinations, hygiene training, and emotional care for healthy development.
Q4: How does Islam connect physical and spiritual health?
Islam teaches that the body is an amanah (trust). Physical health enables worship, while spiritual practices like salah, dua, and dhikr bring emotional peace. Modern science confirms that stress-free, spiritual people live healthier and longer lives.
Q5: What are the Prophet’s ﷺ health tips relevant today?
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged moderation in food, using remedies like honey and black seed, maintaining hygiene, and exercising through walking and physical work. These sunnah practices align with today’s medical advice on healthy living.
10. Conclusion
Women’s and children’s health in Islam is not just a personal matter; it is a religious duty and community responsibility. The Qur’an and Sunnah guide us toward physical, emotional, and spiritual care, while modern medicine confirms these principles with scientific evidence. Families must adopt balanced diets, hygiene, emotional support, and spiritual strength to ensure a healthy next generation. By combining Islamic guidance with medical practices, Muslims can build stronger, healthier, and more faithful societies.
Final Note: The health of women and children is not just a family issue; it is the health of the entire Ummah. When mothers and children thrive, societies prosper, and when they are neglected, entire communities suffer.
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