Is menstruation considered in the Iddah period for a woman whose husband dies?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)
Primary text
The general scholarly consensus is that the existence of menstruation is not considered in the Iddah period for a widow. Following the Book and the Sunnah is preferred. If menstruation were considered for the widow, then three Quru' would have to be observed, like in a divorce case.
Supporting text
A dissenting opinion is narrated from Malik, who held that if the marriage was consummated, the period of four months and ten days must include one menstruation. This disagreement is exclusive to women who menstruate; there is no dispute regarding those who are past menopause or are prepubescent minors.