text: what is the acutal cause of menstural cramping?   prostaglandins are produced as a part of having your period.    "release of prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators in the uterus (womb) is thought to be a factor in primary dysmenorrhea (aka cramping)."   these chemical have many functions in the body including all of the symptoms you typically have prior to and during your cycle.   ibuprofen and naproxen inhibit prostagladins and therefore are effective at reducing discomfort.  the key is to take the medication before you are having cramps as they are inhibitors.  if you are already having the symptoms, it is impossible to inhibit them.  good luck.