Should the Placenta Be Buried after Childbirth?

Answered by Ustadh Tabraze Azam

Question: Assalaamu alaykum,

I have read that in Hanafi fiqh that after childbirth it is recommended to bury the placenta.

My wife and I are expecting our first child inshaAllah and are planning on delivering the child in the hospital.

Would it be sinful or disliked not to do so?

Answer: Wa alaikum assalam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,

I pray that you are in the best of health and faith, insha’Allah.

The general ruling is that it is recommended to bury that which is separated from a human being because all of the Children of Adam have a sacredness, nobility and honour, as decisively established in the Qur’an.

Allah Most High says, “Verily we have honoured the Children of Adam.” [17.70]

There is no harm in not burying it, but you should consider asking, if you are reasonably able to do so, about taking the placenta in order that you can dispose of it in a more dignified manner.

Please see: Disposing of Hair and Nails

And Allah alone gives success.

wassalam,

Tabraze Azam

Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani