How can one deal with the intermingling of istihada (abnormal uterine bleeding) with natural discharges – wetness – and distinguish between them in determining the times for ablution and prayer, especially since this confusion leads to hardship and delay in performing prayers?

Discharge that is brownish or yellowish outside the time of menstruation is not considered menses. It is impure, not pure. If it appears outside the usual time [of menstruation], one must take precautions by placing a cloth over the area to prevent the spread of impurity. Ablution is required for every prayer after its time has begun, and with this ablution, one may perform both obligatory and supererogatory prayers. It is not necessary to re-bandage the area for every prayer unless needed.