In Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment, the patient's blood is separated through a special process to obtain plasma, which is then reintroduced to the patient through injection. This contributes to cell regeneration. Examples of its use can be found in orthopedics, medical aesthetics, plastic surgery, and various other fields. The application has also been introduced in assisted reproductive technology, supporting cell renewal in procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Every woman is born with approximately 2 million egg cells. During adolescence, this number decreases to around 400,000. As women age, they lose almost 1,000 egg cells per year. In their 40s, this number significantly decreases, leading to the onset of a process called menopause. Additionally, there can be some abnormalities in the existing egg cells at an advanced age. The support of cell renewal due to abnormalities in egg cells can result in a significant increase in the chances of pregnancy for couples facing infertility and endometrial issues.
One of the most important factors that increase the possibility of pregnancy in IVF treatment is the number and quality of the woman's eggs. The most important factor affecting this is the age of the woman. For this reason, PRP applications can be applied to women over the age of 37.
Even if a woman is young, some factors can affect egg quality. As a result of research, women whose egg quality is not suitable for pregnancy may need to resort to the PRP method for cell renewal.
Another problem for which this procedure is frequently used is when the endometrial lining is excessively thin. The thinning of the endometrial lining may be attributed to past repeated abortion procedures, infections, and intrauterine surgeries. Following these procedures, the lining may be compromised and may not thicken adequately. Through PRP application, the renewal of the endometrial lining is facilitated, restoring it to its natural balance.
As a result of the failure of multiple IVF attempts, couples can have another chance with PRP application. For this reason, PRP application may be preferred with new research.
PRP application in IVF treatment is commonly performed with two different methods.
Women undergoing PRP treatment are monitored by the doctor. The ovarian reserve and endometrial lining are regularly examined through ultrasound and other tests. Typically, these check-ups commence around the second menstrual cycle. The response of ovarian tissue to the treatment begins to manifest from the third month onward.
The application of PRP in in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment has a relatively recent history. Through studies conducted so far, it has been observed that some women whose eggs undergo rejuvenation with this method can conceive naturally without the need for IVF. Even if natural pregnancy does not occur, the use of higher-quality eggs in IVF treatment significantly increases the success rate. Moreover, the greatest advantage of this method is that it utilizes plasma obtained from the patient's own blood. This allows for cell renewal without introducing foreign substances into the body.
