I have a hard thing between my breast after my periods and it pains very sharp when i bend forward or touch it

The presence of a hard lump between your breasts on the sternum that is painful, especially when touched or when bending forward, warrants further evaluation. While it may be something benign, like a cyst or an inflamed area due to a minor injury, it’s important to rule out other possibilities, including infection or a more serious issue. Since this is a new and painful development, seeing a healthcare professional to have it examined is a good next step. They may perform a physical exam and recommend imaging, like an ultrasound or MRI, to better understand the lump’s nature. Regarding your menstrual changes, experiencing brown discharge at the beginning of your period can often be normal as it typically consists of old blood leaving the uterus. However, if this change in flow persists, or if you notice other symptoms like irregularity, severe pain, or excessive bleeding, it would be wise to discuss this with a gynecologist. They may want to rule out conditions like hormonal imbalances, polyps, or fibroids. It’s helpful to keep a record of your menstrual cycle characteristics including flow, duration, and the presence of any spotting or discharge, to provide better insight during your consultation. While waiting for your appointment, alleviating the pain might be possible with over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen (provided you have no contraindications for its use), or applying a warm compress to the area. However, make sure not to delay medical assessment, especially if the pain intensifies or if you notice any other concerning symptoms like swelling, redness, or fever.