Conclusion: If your i‘tikaaf was voluntary – as appears to be the case – then whatever was done before your menses is valid. As for what remains after your menses began, you do not have to go back to the mosque to complete it. But if your i‘tikaaf was obligatory (in fulfilment of a vow), then it is essential to know the wording of the vow in order to determine whether you have to complete it or not? And Allah knows best.

During i’tikaf, you should devote your time to worshipping Allah and should not be distracted by other people in the mosque. But if you speak briefly to some people or someone who comes to visit you, there is nothing wrong with that.

Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings be upon him) i’tikaf was moderate and not harsh. He spent all his time remembering Allah and turning to Him in worship, seeking Laylat al-Qadr.

I’tikaf should be observed in a mosque in which congregational prayers are held. During i’tikaf, you are not allowed to visit any sick person, or accept any invitation, or attend to your family’s needs except those which cannot be avoided.

I’tikaf is Sunnah, not compulsory, unless one made a vow to do it, in which case it becomes obligatory. For more, please see the detailed answer.