Asalamu alaikum. I have a question regarding the use of copper IUD(intrauterine device). In case you are unfamiliar with how it works, it works like this:"Copper IUD: It releases a small amount of copper into the uterus, which prevents the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg. If fertilization does occur, the IUD keeps the fertilized egg (embryo) from implanting in the lining of the uterus." I'm curious because I don't know if it would be haram, because if an egg is fertilized, wouldn't it then be considered an embryo.Therefore, would this be similar to having an abortion? I am a little confused and I would greatly appreciate it if you can please clarify this for me. Jazakum Allah Khair.

All praise be to Allah, and may His blessings and peace be on His last prophet and messenger, Muhammad.

Given the actual occurrence of this very rare scenario, that would amount to forbidden abortion according to the Malikis. According to the three other madhahib, it would not. According to many physicians, IUDs are safer for the woman than OCPs. Based on the above, there is no harm in using IUDs. One should use the type that causes the least incidence of occurrence of the above scenario.

Allah knows best.