Are the brown discharges and drops of blood that preceded menstruation by four days considered istihadah (irregular bleeding), and is it permissible to fast and pray during these days?

The relied-upon opinion is that yellowish and brownish discharges are considered menses if they occur during the habitual period or are connected to blood. Accordingly, the brownish discharges seen during the habitual period are considered menses, necessitating the abandonment of fasting and prayer and the making up of missed days. A ghusl (ritual bath) is also required after their cessation.