Iddah duration while pregnant
You are pregnant during your divorce and want to know when your iddah actually ends.
How long is iddah while pregnant?
A pregnant wife’s iddah lasts until she delivers, unlike the three-quru’ or three-Hijri-month period for a wife who is not pregnant.[1] This means the actual length depends entirely on when the baby is born, not a fixed date.
Many pregnant wives get confused hearing that another wife’s iddah was three months, when their own period differs because of the pregnancy.
Why is this period calculated differently?
The purpose of iddah includes making sure a child’s lineage is clear before anyone can remarry. Because of this, a pregnant wife’s iddah naturally depends on when the pregnancy ends, not a set number of months.
For a full picture of every iddah duration, see the iddah page.
Does my nafkah iddah also run longer?
Yes. Your right to maintenance during the waiting period continues until iddah ends, unless nusyuz is proven against you.[2] Because a pregnant wife’s iddah can take longer, this maintenance claim runs in step with that actual period.
If you are unsure how to apply for this, see the factors weighed in nafkah iddah.
What happens if I miscarry during iddah?
This is a specific situation that can change how the iddah period is calculated. It is best confirmed with your state’s Islamic authority or a Peguam Syarie as soon as possible so you understand your actual position.
Can my husband do ruju’ while I am pregnant during iddah?
Yes, if the divorce is revocable and iddah has not yet ended. The longer period for a pregnant wife gives more room to consider this if both parties want to continue the marriage. Read more on ruju’ within iddah.
What should you do now?
Keep a clear record of your divorce date and how far along your pregnancy was, as this forms the basis for calculating your iddah. Also keep your medical checkup records showing the expected delivery date.
Tell us your divorce date and your pregnancy situation, and we will help you understand the iddah and the related maintenance claim.
Common questions
I was three months pregnant when we divorced, does my iddah run until I deliver?
Yes. A pregnant wife's iddah lasts until she delivers, regardless of how far along the pregnancy was at the time of divorce. This differs from the three-month or three-quru' period for a non-pregnant wife.
Am I still entitled to nafkah iddah across this longer pregnancy period?
Yes, your right to nafkah iddah continues until this period ends, unless nusyuz is proven against you. A longer period means the claim runs longer too.
If I miscarry during iddah, what happens to this period?
This is a specific situation best confirmed with your state's Islamic authority or a Peguam Syarie, as it can change how the iddah period is calculated.
Can my husband do ruju' while I am still in this pregnancy iddah?
Yes, if the divorce is revocable and iddah has not yet ended. The longer period for a pregnant wife gives more time to consider this if both parties want to continue the marriage.
If you are pregnant and unsure how your iddah is calculated, tell us the divorce date and how far along your pregnancy is, and we will help you see a clear picture.
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