Once the menstrual bleeding has completely stopped and a woman is certain that her period has ended, marital intimacy becomes permissible. However, there is a recognized difference of opinion among scholars regarding intimacy before ghusl. Because of this scholarly difference, and because Islam places great emphasis on purity and cleanliness, it is better and more precautionary to perform ghusl first before intimacy whenever possible.
Allah says: “Indeed, Allah loves those who constantly repent and loves those who purify themselves.” (Qur’an 2:222) The Prophet ﷺ also said: “Purity is half of faith.” (Sahih Muslim) Therefore, performing ghusl first removes any doubt, places a person in a state of complete purity, and prepares them for worship. While scholars have discussed the details of this issue, choosing ghusl first is the safer and more virtuous approach.
May Allah grant us purity of heart and body, increase us in beneficial knowledge, bless our marriages with love and barakah, and make us among those who love cleanliness, faith, and obedience to Him. Ameen 🤲
And Allah knows best.