What is the ruling on prayer and fasting during the first days of the menstrual period, when the bleeding is very light and intermittent, especially when the period starts earlier than its usual time?

Scholars have differed regarding whether a single drop of blood is considered menstruation (hayd) or not. The majority of scholars hold that it is not considered menstruation because it is less than their minimum duration for menstruation, and the blood must be flowing and continuous. The Malikis, however, consider it menstruation. The preponderant opinion is that of the majority, because linguistically, hayd means flowing and continuity, and this single drop does not fulfill this description. Furthermore, there is the hadith of Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him) which indicates that a drop of blood or similar is not menstruation unless the blood is thick. Also, precaution in worship dictates not considering it menstruation. Accordingly, this drop is not hayd but rather irregular bleeding (dam fasad). Therefore, it does not prevent prayer or fasting; rather, it necessitates cleaning the area and performing ablution. Menstruation begins with the discharge of blood and its continuation for a day and a night.