Most women instinctively reach for paracetamol when period pain strikes, but a new study suggests this common choice may not be the most effective. Research published in PLOS Digital Health analyzed 211 million supermarket receipts from 2006 to 2015 and found that people overwhelmingly purchase paracetamol alongside menstrual products like pads and tampons. However, experts from the University of Bristol and the University of Nottingham advise that ibuprofen is actually the preferred treatment for cramps.
Key findings of the study
Of all purchases involving period products, 50% also included pain relief. Among those, two-thirds were paracetamol and one-third were ibuprofen, despite ibuprofen being more effective for period pain. The study also revealed a socio-economic link: individuals in low-income areas were 32% less likely to buy pain relief with period products compared to those in high-income areas, primarily due to cost.
Expert commentary
Dr. Anya Skatova from the University of Bristol stated: 'Like many women, I was aware of how common menstrual pain is, but the scale of painkiller purchases alongside menstrual products was still striking. Using shopping data, we can see just how widespread the need for pain relief really is. This kind of evidence helps make menstrual pain visible at a population level and provides a strong foundation for systemic change.'
Broader context of period pain
A 2025 survey by Wellbeing of Women titled 'Just A Period' found that 50% of women consulted a healthcare professional for heavy bleeding or period pain, while another 50% had their symptoms dismissed by someone in their lives—17% by a male healthcare professional and 26% by a partner. Additionally, 51% reported that periods negatively impact their lives. The average wait time for an endometriosis diagnosis is nine years and four months. According to Endometriosis UK, 39% of women visited their GP at least 10 times before referral, 55% went to A&E with symptoms, and 46% were sent home without treatment.
Why ibuprofen is more effective
Dr. Giuseppe Aragona, medical adviser for Prescription Doctor, explained that ibuprofen targets the underlying causes of period pain. 'During a period, the body releases chemicals called prostaglandins, which cause the muscles of the womb to contract and lead to pain and cramping. Ibuprofen belongs to NSAIDs, which reduce prostaglandin production. By addressing the process driving the pain, ibuprofen often provides better relief than paracetamol alone.' However, paracetamol can still help those who cannot take ibuprofen due to asthma, stomach ulcers, or kidney problems. 'Paracetamol reduces pain perception but lacks anti-inflammatory effects and does not reduce prostaglandins,' Dr. Aragona added.
Preventative ibuprofen
For those prone to cramping, taking ibuprofen preventatively may help. Dr. Aragona noted: 'The aim is to reduce prostaglandin production before levels build up, effectively reducing symptom severity. However, this approach isn't suitable for everyone. Always follow dosing instructions and consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional if unsure.'
Other options
Naproxen, another NSAID, is an alternative. Non-pharmaceutical remedies include hot water bottles or heat patches. For severe pain, hormonal contraception like the combined oral contraceptive pill may help by suppressing ovulation and reducing prostaglandin production. Dr. Aragona emphasized: 'Anyone experiencing severe period pain that worsens, interferes with daily life, or includes heavy bleeding, pain during sex, or fertility concerns should speak to their GP.'
