Is coitus interruptus permissible with a free wife without her consent?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Wedding Feast
Primary text
Coitus interruptus with a free wife is not permissible except with her explicit permission. The apparent view of Ahmad supports the obligation of seeking the wife's permission. The evidence supporting this is the report that the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, forbade coitus interruptus with a free woman except with her permission, narrated by Imam Ahmad in Al-Musnad and Ibn Majah, based on the statement of 'Umar, may Allah be pleased with him. Furthermore, she possesses a right in the potential offspring, and withdrawal causes her harm, thus necessitating her permission.
Supporting text
It is arguable that seeking the free wife's permission is merely recommended (mustahabb), because her right pertains to the act of intercourse itself, not the ejaculation, evidenced by the fact that withdrawal excludes her from claiming the dowry (fay'a) or demanding divorce due to impotence (inana). Al-Shafi'is hold two views on this matter, but the first view—that it is obligatory—is considered superior.