Is It Permissible To Hire A Milk Mother? What Are The Liabilites Of The Family Towards Milk Mother?

Is it permissible to hire a milk mother? What are the liabilites of the family towards milk mother?

Breastfeeding plays an important role in childcare and growth. In this respect, Islam holds it as a duty attributed to parents of a child. A mother may breastfeed her child as well as having him/her breastfed by a milk mother. However, unless necessary, mothers should not abstain from breastfeeding for the sake of establishing a bond and in terms of the child’s mental health. In the event that the milk mother demands money in exchange for breastfeeding the father of the child has to pay such amount (Baqarah, 2/233, Talaq, 65/6).

Spiritual aspect of this matter also has a particular importance, along with its legal rights and obligations. Mother and father should show due interest to the milk mother who plays a vital role in growth of their child and should raise their child as a person who is sensitive about this matter.

Source: Presidency Of Religious Affairs The Turkey, High Board of Religious Affairs FATWA