If you suffer from uncomfortable menstrual cramps, you may be surprised to learn that there’s an easy way to prevent them: take one to three ibuprofen (such as Advil or Nuprin) daily on the three days leading up to your period. Research shows that ibuprofen—but not acetaminophen (Tylenol)—blocks the body’s production of prostaglandins, those pesky hormone-like chemicals that cause the pain of cramps. So, when you prevent the build-up of prostaglandins, you prevent period pain! I only need one to two ibuprofens on the three days before my period to prevent cramps, but I have friends who need to pop three a day for this to work. Experiment by starting with a low dose. But, of course, never exceed the recommended maximum daily dose, which is noted on the bottle.
Tip: Not sure exactly when your period is supposed to begin? Start keeping a journal to get better acquainted with your personal cycle. Till then, you can guesstimate.
[photo: hyperscholar]
