We all know of Viagra as a drug that helps men get and sustain an erection, but it appears there are other unknown benefits to the use of this vasodilator.
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In fact, according to a study published by the journal Human Reproduction on "sildenafil" citrate (the active ingredient in Viagra), it can also relieve menstrual cramps.
The mysteries of Viagra
The results of the study focused on primary dysmenorrhea, that is, abdominal pain, which can sometimes be very debilitation for women when they're on their period. Because the drug helps dilate blood vessels, it can also help with menstrual pain.
Vasoconstriction is a major cause of menstrual pain. Researchers at Zagreb's Center for Reproductive Medicine in Croatia and Penn State University in the United States conducted experiments in which they gave 25 women aged 18 to 35 years a 100 mg tablet of Viagra vaginally. The results were significant.
However, the study only had a sample of about 20 young women, so the effectiveness of the little blue pill cannot yet be confirmed. Stay tuned!
