Can a husband prevent his wife from breastfeeding their child by another woman?
Chapter on Who is More Entitled to Child Custody
Al-Mughni
Book of Maintenance (Nafaqāt)
Primary text
A husband has the right to prevent his wife from breastfeeding their child by another woman, and from breastfeeding the child of another man. This is because the marriage contract implies the husband's right to enjoyment (istimtā') at all times and in all ways, except during the times of prayer. Breastfeeding prevents this enjoyment for some periods, therefore, the husband may prohibit it, similar to prohibiting her departure from his home.
Supporting text
If the child is in dire need (idṭirār)—meaning no other wet nurse is available, or the child refuses to accept milk from anyone else—then allowing her to breastfeed is obligatory. This necessity, which preserves the child's life, takes precedence over the husband's right, similar to how the necessity of one person supersedes the right of an owner who does not share the same level of necessity.