⚖️ Polygyny: rulings & justice · #53

Should a man and his prospective wife have health checks before a polygamous marriage?

It is strongly encouraged, and many states already require health screening before marriage; in polygamy it also protects the existing wife from the risk of infection.
Islam forbids harming oneself and others (Sunan Ibn Majah 2340) and tells us to guard against ruin (al-Baqarah 2:195). Screening for HIV and sexually transmitted infections matters because infections can pass between households. Beyond that, a full health check helps assess the husband's long-term ability to carry responsibilities towards more than one wife, including chronic illness and mental health. The existing wife is entitled to know if there is a risk of infection affecting her. Screening results are confidential, but the spouses involved should be open with one another. See the question on HIV screening.

Sources

Sunan Ibn Majah 2340 (sahih)Surah al-Baqarah 2:195Surah an-Nisa' 4:3

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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