Plasma prostaglandin F 2-alpha levels in dysmenorrehic women.

Plasma prostaglandin F 2-alpha (PGF 2-alpha) concentrations were compared in nine ovulatory dysmenorrheic women, one dysmenorrheic oral contraceptive user, and two nondysmenorrheic control subjects, in an effort to demonstrate a relationship between plasma PGF 2-alpha levels and dysmenorrhea. In addition, the effects of aspirin, a known inhibitorof prostaglandins synthesis, on dysmenorrhea and on PGF 2-alpha levels were investigated. No statistical difference was demonstrated between the plasma PGF 2-alpha levels of dysmenorrheic and nondysmenorrheic subjects throughout the menstrual cycle. Attainment of an adequate salicylate level was accompanied by a significant decrease in PGF 2-alpha levels. All dysmenorrheic subjects reported improvement in symptoms while taking aspirin. The greatest subjective relief was reported by women who began taking aspirin (10 grains every 4 hours) 3 or more days prior to the onset of bleeding.