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may be your best friend for dealing with cramps, but did you know it can help reduce your menstrual flow, too?

Here’s How It Works

When you’re menstruating, your body produces the hormone prostaglandin, which causes contractions, or cramps, in your uterus. The contractions help shed the lining of your uterus.

Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), . Less prostaglandin means less uterine shedding, leading to fewer cramps and less bleeding.

How Much to Take and When

Results are unique to each person, but Heather N. Beall, MD, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Northwestern Medicine, says, on average, a person may experience less bleeding if they take 800 mg of ibuprofen three times a day, ideally starting right before or when their period starts.

“Ibuprofen works best for cramps and possible reduction of flow if taken before the cramps get too bad,” says Dr. Beall. “So, if you know, for example, your heavy day with cramps is day two, then start taking it on day one of your cycle. Typically, patients will not need more than three days of treatment.”

Dr. Beall notes that 800 mg three times a day is considered a high dose and should be discussed with your physician beforehand, especially if you have existing conditions like liver, kidney or heart disease.

If you take , here are some tips to remember:

• Always take ibuprofen with food to reduce the risk of stomach problems.
• Avoid alcohol consumption.
• Stay hydrated.

While ibuprofen may help manage heavy bleeding in the short term, it's not recommended as a long-term solution for heavy or irregular bleeding. If you consistently experience heavy or painful periods, talk with your physician to learn about other treatment options, such as birth control � which can help regulate your periods � or a medical procedure.