Why It Hurts To Be A Woman

Anyone who thinks period pain is all in your head deserves to experience it first-hand. Doctors used to think that way, and their treatments were targeted more at the perception of pain, such as prescribing tranquilizers. Well, thank heavens they know better know.

As a woman, and as a medical health specialist, I'd like to present both viewpoints of this product -- what it's medically supposed to do and what it actually does for ME.

Basically, period pain is caused by... what else?... hormones! Chemical substances known as prostaglandins are naturally produced by cells in the lining of the uterus. At the end of a woman's cycle, the thickened lining of the uterus breaks up and sloughs off, releasing these prostaglandins. The prostaglandins then make the uterus contract strongly, sometimes so strongly that the blood supply can be temporarily cut off. This deprives uterine muscles of oxygen and leads to PAIN.

Which Medications Are Supposed To Help

Some over the counter products are approved for targeting these troublesome prostaglandins. Everybody has heard of two of the big ones -- ibuprofen and naproxen. Aspirin does also, but not to as great of an extent. Researchers aren't sure if acetaminophen works against painful prostaglandin production, but it can successfully treat headaches and backaches that often accompany menstrual cramps.

Pamprin's mix of ingredients include an analgesic (acetaminophen), a diuretic (pamabrom), and an antihistamine (pyrilamine maleate). The acetaminophen, though not known to work on prostaglandins, may act on nerve endings to suppress pain. The pamabrom and pyrilamine maleate do not work directly on the pain or prostaglandins, but may relieve other uncomfortable symptoms. (Note: Pyrilamine Maleate is an antihistamine, and therefore may have a sedative effect, making you sleepy!)

What Pamprin CLAIMS To Do

Pamprin claims to ease cramps, headaches, backaches, water weight gain, and irritability.

My Personal Experience With Pamprin

I paid about $3.29 for a box of 20 pills and, to be short and sweet, it didn't work for me. Oh, it was better than nothing, but not nearly as effective as I -- or my family -- would have hoped. The water weight gain and irritability were relieved slightly, but none of my other symptoms were.

I have personally found that products containing Ibuprofen (such as Advil) are more effective at easing soft-tissue pain, and I also have found that caffeine-containing products (such as Midol) ease some symptoms as well. A big `ol chocolate bar never hurt either. Pamprin may provide blessed relief to some, but I am unfortunately not among them.

Recommended: No