Going with the flow is overrated.
And when it comes to periods, you don’t really have to: Gynecologists have confirmed that it is, in fact, possible to lighten your flow and reduce cramps every month.
All it takes is a little preparation and an over-the-counter medication.
Francesca (@francesca.talks) went viral for the tip, which she got from her own gynecologist and says led her to the best period she’d had in a very long time.
“I did not use my heating pad once,” she said in disbelief. “When does that happen? Literally never.”
For the method to work, you need to know when your period is coming. That means tracking your cycle — and it may not work if your periods are irregular.
“Three days before your period comes, you’re going to take two Advil twice a day,” she instructed.
It worked like a charm for her, and several doctors on TikTok have endorsed the hack, explaining why it really can make a difference.
Dr. Molly McBride (@drmollymcbride), a gynecologist and founder of Slán NYC, suggests only taking ibuprofen for two takes leading up to the first day of your period.
“On average, you can reduce your menstrual flow by about 30% and significantly reduce cramps by taking ibuprofen twice a day for two days before your period starts,” she said.
During a woman’s period, her body produces prostoglandins, hormone-like lipids that induce cramps that cause the uterine lining to shed.
Ibuprofen, which is sold under brand names like Advil and MotrinIB, slows down the production of those prostoglandins, resulting in lighter and less painful periods.
Dr. Franziska Haydanek (@pagingdrfran), another OB-GYN, says hormonal birth control will make an even bigger difference — but for those who don’t want to be on the Pill or an IUD, NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help too.
“Using 600 milligrams of ibuprofen two to four times a day, the day that you start your period, can decrease your blood flow by about 20 to 50%,” she said.
A 2019 study found that prostaglandin levels are higher in women with a heavy menstrual flow, and taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen were “modestly effective” in reducing that blood flow. However, prescription medications — including danazol, tranexamic acid and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS) — were found to be more effective.
