Etiquette and proper limits of sexual intercourse

Q 4: What are the etiquette and proper limits that should be observed by a husband and wife during intercourse? What is Makruh (disliked) and Haram (prohibited) and how can it be performed in the best way?

A: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said, If one of you, when he approaches his wife (i.e., has conjugal intercourse with her), says, ‘In the name of Allah. O Allah! Keep Satan away from us and keep Satan away from what You bestow on us (i.e., the coming offspring)' and it is decreed that they should have a child, Satan will never harm it. (Part No. 19; Page No. 356) Reported by the Six Hadith Compilers (Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhy, Al-Nasa'y, and Ibn Majah) save Al-Nasa'y. It is prohibited for him to have sexual intercourse with her in her menses and following childbirth. He is not permitted to have anal intercourse either. We advise you to read what the learned scholar Ibn Al-Qayyim mentioned in his book entitled ''Zad Al-Ma`ad'' in this respect and you will find the answer to what you have asked about. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, his family and Companions.