PRP in IVF: Everything You Need to Know

PRP in IVF: Everything You Need to Know

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an innovative treatment that is quickly gaining popularity in fertility care. In recent years, many couples have chosen PRP to improve their chances with in vitro fertilization (IVF). This guide explains what PRP is, how we prepare it, and how we use it in fertility treatments like IVF. We cover its benefits, cost in INR, and what you can expect during the treatment process.

What Is PRP?

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. It is a concentrated part of your own blood that has platelets in high amount. Platelets are small cell fragments that actively help your body heal. They carry growth factors that speed up tissue repair. Doctors prepare PRP by spinning your blood in a centrifuge to separate the rich plasma from the other blood components.

Your whole blood consists of four main parts:

• Plasma: The liquid that carries cells, nutrients, and proteins.
• Platelets: Tiny cell fragments that promote clotting and healing.
• Red Blood Cells: These cells deliver oxygen to every part of your body.
• White Blood Cells: They combat infections and support your immune system.

How Is PRP Prepared?

• A professional draws a small amount of your blood, just as in a routine test.
• The blood sample is placed in a machine that spins very fast. This process separates the blood into its different components.
• A lab technician collects the plasma rich in platelets. This plasma is then ready for injection.

This process takes about 15 minutes. The result is a solution loaded with platelets and growth factors, ready for use in fertility treatments.

How PRP Is Used in IVF and Fertility Treatments

Doctors now add PRP to standard fertility treatments such as IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI). The treatment helps improve egg quality, boosts the thickness of the uterine lining, and increases the chance that an embryo will implant.

PRP for Egg Quantity and Quality
We use PRP to improve both the quality and quantity of eggs. This approach is especially important for women with low ovarian reserve, a condition where fewer eggs are available, making pregnancy more challenging.

There are two main methods to apply PRP for this purpose:

Intraovarian PRP Injection
In this procedure, doctors inject a small amount (usually 1-3 mL) of PRP directly into the ovaries. They guide the injection with ultrasound to ensure precision.

A needle passes through the vaginal wall into the ovaries. This procedure usually occurs one to three months before an IVF cycle. Some clinics perform this during egg retrieval, but it works best when done ahead of time.

High-Volume Intrauterine PRP
In another method, doctors inject a larger amount of PRP (around 8-10 mL) into the uterus. They slowly infuse it using a special catheter. The PRP flows through the uterus and fallopian tubes, reaching the ovaries.

After the procedure, the patient rests for about 10 minutes while the catheter remains in place. This technique not only improves egg quality but also enhances overall ovarian function.

PRP for Uterine Lining Growth and Endometrial Receptivity

A healthy uterine lining is crucial for embryo implantation and growth. PRP boosts the lining by increasing its thickness and making it more receptive. Doctors call this process the PRP intrauterine wash, usually performed about 48 hours before embryo transfer.

During the procedure, doctors infuse a small amount (around 3-5 mL) of PRP into the uterus using an IUI catheter. The patient then rests for about 10 minutes before resuming normal activities. If the lining remains thin, doctors may repeat the treatment a few days later.

PRP in Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF)

Benefits of PRP in IVF

PRP offers a natural and safe treatment because it uses your own blood. Key benefits include:

• PRP may improve egg quality, which is crucial for fertilization and embryo development.
• Injecting PRP into the ovaries may improve ovarian function, especially for women with low ovarian reserve.
• A thicker, more receptive uterine lining increases the chance of embryo implantation and a successful pregnancy.
• Couples who have experienced repeated IVF failures can try PRP as a new approach to improve outcomes.
• Since PRP comes from your own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or complications is very low.
• The procedure involves a simple injection into the ovaries or uterus and does not require major surgery.

The PRP Procedure in Detail

The PRP procedure for IVF is simple and safe. Here is a detailed look at what you can expect:

Consultation and Evaluation
Before starting PRP treatment, you will meet your fertility specialist. They review your medical history and discuss your previous IVF cycles, if any. They also run tests to check your ovarian reserve and uterine lining. This evaluation determines if PRP is a good option for you.

Drawing Blood
During the PRP procedure, a professional draws a small amount of blood from your arm. This step is similar to a routine blood test.

Processing the Blood
The drawn blood goes to a lab where it spins in a centrifuge. This process takes about 15 minutes and separates the blood into its components. A lab technician collects the plasma rich in platelets.

Injection of PRP
Based on your needs, the doctor injects PRP either into your ovaries or uterus:

• Intraovarian Injection: A small needle, guided by ultrasound, injects 1-3 mL of PRP directly into the ovaries. This procedure usually takes place under light sedation.
• High-Volume Intrauterine Injection: In this method, 8-10 mL of PRP is slowly infused into the uterus using a soft catheter. The plasma flows through the uterus and fallopian tubes, bathing the ovaries as well.
• Uterine Lining Wash: About 48 hours before embryo transfer, 3-5 mL of PRP is injected into the uterus to improve the endometrial lining.

Post-Procedure Care
After the injection, you rest for 10 minutes while the PRP takes effect. You can resume your normal activities shortly afterward. Your doctor will give you guidelines on what to expect and how to care for yourself following the procedure.

Cost of PRP for IVF in INR

The cost of PRP treatment varies by clinic, the type of injection, and the number of sessions required. In India, the price for PRP treatment ranges from approximately INR 25,000 to INR 1,40,000. Your doctor will help you understand the costs based on your specific needs and the recommended treatment plan.

What the Future Holds for PRP in IVF

Researchers continue to explore how PRP works and the best ways to use it in fertility treatments. While some studies show promising results, more research will help us fully understand its effects. Future studies may clarify how PRP boosts egg quality, improves the uterine environment, and supports new egg growth.

Meanwhile, many fertility specialists already include PRP in their treatment plans, especially for patients with low ovarian reserve or a history of implantation failure. As more evidence becomes available, PRP may become a standard part of fertility treatment protocols.

Conclusion

PRP is a safe, natural treatment that uses your own blood to boost fertility. It offers a new option for couples who have struggled with low ovarian reserve, thin uterine lining, or recurrent implantation failure. With its ability to improve egg quality, rejuvenate the ovaries, and enhance the uterine environment, PRP can make IVF more successful.

If you are considering IVF and have faced challenges in previous cycles, speak with your fertility specialist about PRP. They can advise you on whether this treatment suits your needs and how it fits into your overall fertility plan. PRP is not a magic solution, but when combined with quality medical care and a healthy lifestyle, it can bring new hope on your journey to parenthood.

Meanwhile, many fertility specialists already include PRP in their treatment plans, especially for patients with low ovarian reserve or a history of implantation failure. As more evidence becomes available, PRP may become a standard part of fertility treatment protocols.