One of the main chemical culprits for menstrual cramps is a rise in prostaglandins[1] (especially PGF2ɑ), which can reduce blood flow to the uterus while also strengthening contractions. This combination lowers oxygen availability in the uterus, resulting in cramping and pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can stem this rise in prostaglandins, which is probably why they are effective for treating menstrual cramps[2] and are recommended[3] as a first-line intervention.
References
- ^Dawood MYPrimary dysmenorrhea: advances in pathogenesis and managementObstet Gynecol.(2006 Aug)
- ^Marjoribanks J, Ayeleke RO, Farquhar C, Proctor MNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for dysmenorrhoeaCochrane Database Syst Rev.(2015 Jul 30)
- ^Osayande AS, Mehulic SDiagnosis and initial management of dysmenorrheaAm Fam Physician.(2014 Mar 1)