How does ibuprofen influence menstruation?

Among the main symptoms of menstruation is inflammation and pain related to menstrual cramps.

How does ibuprofen influence menstruation?

Among the main symptoms of menstruation is inflammation and pain related to menstrual cramps. For this reason, since ancient times, our grandmothers prepared us infusions that relaxed the muscles or gave us bags filled with hot seeds. Everything to try to calm those menstrual cramps.

Now, with the passage of time and advances in medical research, we use drugs like Ibuprofen to regulate menstrual cramps. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is frequently used as an antipyretic, pain reliever, and anti-inflammatory. Thanks to this, the muscles relax from the contractions of the uterus caused by and for the detachment of the endometrium (related to menstrual flow). The result is a decrease in pain.

Ibuprofen reduces menstrual flow

According to the latest studies by Lara Briden and published in the Period Repair Manual, Ibuprofen is an alternative to reduce the heavy flow of menstruation. This medicine helps reduce not only physical pain, but also the excessive amount of menstrual flow.

This is because ibuprofen helps in lowering the levels of prostaglandins, that are the hormones that help the body produce uterine contractions in order to detach the endometrium. So both prostaglandins and contractions are significantly reduced with the use of Ibuprofen.

In addition, according to the Cleveland Clinic, ibuprofen can even delay menstruation for a few days if you take doses higher than recommended (including potentially toxic doses). This means more than 800 milligrams of ibuprofen in less than six hours or more than 500 milligrams of naproxen in less than three times a day.

Although these drugs in high doses have been linked to kidney difficulties and blood pressure, experts say that in the recommended doses, with proper healthy diet and daily physical activity, people who suffer from excess menstrual flow can enjoy their benefits. However, we recommend that before taking this medicine on a regular basis you visit your gynecologist or family doctor to discard other physical conditions.

Written by: Sexologist MJ Castañeda Aguirre

Translated by: Thaïs Pascual