Is it permissible to make wudhu while in the state of haidh or nifaas?

There isn’t any prohibition that categorically prevents a female from performing Wudhu whilst experiencing Haidh or Nifaas. We do understand that no particular Ibaadat (which requires Wudhu such as Salaah or touching the Quraan Sharif) can be carried out with the said Wudhu due to being in a state of Hadih or Nifaas. However, this in no way prevents her from remaining in a state of Wudhu at all times.

Some Mashaaikh have written that the Rooh is pure and should leave the body in the state of purity. Whoever keeps this in mind (that the Rooh should depart from the world in a state of Tahaarat) will always endeavour to remain in a state of Wudhu.

Rasulullah ﷺ once, after having relieved himself and making Istinja with mud blocks and water proceeded to make Tayammum. A Sahaabi (Radhiallahu Anhu) mentioned, “There is water nearby therefore you should perform Wudhu.” Rasulullah ﷺ estimated (the distance) and remarked, “It is not far-fetched that my Rooh departs before I reach the water.” If my Rooh happens to depart then it will be without Tahaarat. I therefore desire that I make Tayammum now, and make Wudhu later on.

In actual fact, the Rooh of Rasulullah ﷺ could not be removed by the angel of death without prior permission. He enjoyed such closeness with Allah Ta’aala that the angel had to take permission. When the final moments arrived, the angel was asked, “What have you come for?” The angel said, “This is my mission.” He said, “You have come to take my life? Does a loved one take the life of his beloved?”

The angel reported to Allah Ta’aala that he says, “Does a loved one take the life of a beloved?” The angel was instructed, “Tell him, does a loved one evade meeting a loved one?”

It is obvious that a loved one desires to meet a loved one. There is no conveyance for meeting the loved one except death, therefore embark on the journey and the meeting will take place. It has been aptly said,

الموت جسر يوصل الحبيب الي الحبيب

Death is a bridge which conveys a beloved to a beloved

Therefore, those treading the path towards Allah Ta’aala should not remain without Wudhu. Yes, if water is not available or hot water is not available in the months of winter then one is helpless and excused. However, such a person will be rewarded according to his intention [Extracted from the Malfoozaat of Hadrat Maulana Masihullah Khan Saheb Rahmatullahi Alaih – For friends Pg. 497 Vol.2]

In conclusion, if a female experiencing her monthly cycles or Nifaas also performs Wudhu for the above objective (that her Rooh must depart in the state of Wudhu) then there is no harm in doing so.