PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

What is PRP: PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. The main natural function of platelets is to stop bleeding in damaged tissues, form clots, and aid in the healing process of wound tissue.

This method has begun to be used based on the logic of transferring these theoretical effects on healing and damaged tissue to the desired target organ. This method, which was first used in orthopedics, neurosurgery, and burn treatment, has recently also been used in infertility treatments. The aim is to rejuvenate weakened and weakened ovaries and increase egg production capacity. It is administered by injection into the ovarian tissue (ovarian tissue) and the endometrial tissue (endometrium).

Growth factors and cytokines (transforming growth factor beta, PGF, IGF1/2, VEGF, anti-apoptotic cytokines, etc.) believed to be derived from platelets in PRP fluid promote the regeneration and repair of damaged tissue. For this purpose, PRP serum is injected into the ovarian follicle. For this procedure, several tubes of blood are first drawn from the patient, then processed through centrifugation and biochemical activation steps to prepare the PRP serum. The preparation of the serum may take several hours. This serum contains a high concentration of clotting cells (at least 1 million cells per milliliter) and plasma.

The process of administering this plasma to the ovaries can be performed laparoscopically or vaginally with ultrasound guidance using a needle. The vaginal needle procedure is similar to the egg retrieval procedure (OPU). These procedures are usually performed under anesthesia. Positive effects may take several months to appear. The success rate of the method is estimated to be 30%. Whether the method benefits the patient can be determined by an increase in AMH levels and the number of existing eggs. Effects may continue for up to six months.

Who is PRP suitable for?
It can be used in patients with reduced ovarian reserve and quality, low AMH levels, and early menopause. It can also be used in cases of endometrial irregularities, endometrial thickening problems, and recurrent implantation failure (problems with the embryo attaching to the uterus).

What are the risks of the PRP method?

There is currently no known risk associated with administering serum to the over tissue and endometrium. However, there are surgical risks associated with the laparoscopic surgery or vaginal needle insertion (opu needle) performed for the application. As with any surgery, there is a rare risk of bleeding, infection, and injury to surrounding organs.