Is It Permissible for Me To Be a Surgeon as a Female?

Answered by Ustadha Shazia Ahmad

Question

I am a graduated doctor interested in pursuing my career in surgery and doing something for the women who are suffering. Surgery is a male dominant field in my country. Also, there are controversies about women working there. I will also have to uncover my arms while washing before operations. Does the shari`ah allow me to pursue this field of work?

Answer

Thank you for your question. 

You will find the details of gender interaction in the medical profession here:

Choosing a Medical Career and Following Gender Interaction Rules

Here is an article that can help you set your intention and supplicate for the wellness of your patients. 

Is There Specific Supplications That a Doctor Can Say?

As for uncovering your arms for surgery, in the Hanafi school, this is permitted when there is need, and you should do so only upon need. [Ikhtiyar of Imam Mawsuli]. Such a profession is noble and praiseworthy. Pray istikhara before making this decision, I wonder whether you will be treated well in this male-dominated field, and I fear the stress and tension it might cause you.

May Allah give you the best of this world and the next.

[Ustadha] Shazia Ahmad
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Ustadha Shazia Ahmad lived in Damascus, Syria, for two years, where she studied aqidah, fiqh, tajweed, Tafseer, and Arabic. She then attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she completed her Master’s in Arabic. Afterward, she moved to Amman, Jordan, where she studied fiqh, Arabic, and other sciences. She recently moved back to Mississauga, Canada, where she lives with her family.