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Her Uterus, Her Medical Decision? Dismantling Spousal Consent for Medically Indicated Hysterectomies in Saudi Arabia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 May 2018

RUAIM MUAYGIL
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Abstract:

Against the background of a recommended hysterectomy, this article examines the current requirement in Saudi Arabia for the husband’s consent for any medical procedure that affects the reproductive ability of his wife. The history and background of this decree is explained, along with the major arguments for its support. Additionally, the legitimacy of the requirement is discussed from the Islamic and legal perspectives. Special attention is given to relevant cultural considerations, such as the family unit, the medical community, and the larger Saudi society. Arguments advocating for discontinuing the requirement are offered along with measures to implement in order to overcome this social artifact.

Keywords

Saudi ArabiahysterectomyIslamic perspectiveSaudi law
Type
Special Section: Bioethics Beyond Borders
Information
Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics , Volume 27 , Issue 3 , July 2018 , pp. 397 - 407
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2018 

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References

Notes

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2. According to Saudi law, every woman regardless age or competence must have a male legal guardian. The guardian must be a close relative, typically a father or a husband, but also sometimes a brother, uncle, or even an adult son. Currently, women must seek their guardian’s written permission for some types of jobs or studies, to start businesses, to marry, or to travel. New legislation to end this practice is currently being debated.

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