What is the ruling for a beginner (Mubtadi'ah) when the bleeding stops within or before the maximum duration of menstruation?
Chapter on Menstruation
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
If the bleeding stops at the maximum duration of menstruation or less, she performs a second Ghusl upon cessation and repeats this action in the second and third months. If the number of bleeding days during these three months is uniform, that duration becomes her established cycle. She must then make up any obligatory fasting performed during those days, as it is established that she fasted while menstruating.
Supporting text
A narration transmitted through Al-Khallal from 'Ata states that a virgin who experiences irregular bleeding and does not know her cycle should follow the cycle of her mother, sister, paternal aunt, or maternal aunt, refrain from prayer for that duration, perform Ghusl, and then pray. Ahmad approved of this view, indicating it was accepted practice. This is the position of 'Ata, Al-Thawri, and Al-Awza'i. Another view attributed to Ahmad is that she refrains for the maximum duration of menstruation, though the renowned narration states she refrains based on the cycle of similar women.