Fathwa - Menstruation: Irregular start 12-14 hrs gap between first spotting and regular bleeding

Question:
I am 42 years old. My period starts have been normal always. For the
last few months my period starts on the regular day as before, however
after the first spotting(which is sometimes very light, but of
menstruation) I have a 12-14 hrs gap before the actual regular
bleeding starts. What should I do during this gap regarding praying
and fasting etc. Should I do ghusl and keep praying till the regular
bleeding starts?
Answer:
In the name of Allah MostMerciful Most Compassionate
I pray you are well and in the best of health and iman.
In the Hanafi school, if the bleeding stops before the completion of72
hours, then you would need to make wudu and start your obligatory
worship; if it stops after 72 hours, then you would need to take a
ghusl and start your obligatory worship.If the bleeding occurs during
the day i.e. after fajr and before maghrib, during the possible days
of menstruation, then your fast would be invalidated. If there is
nobleeding during this time i.e. between fajr and maghrib, then you
are required to fast. And Allah alone gives success.