Endometrial Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Endometrial PRP is a groundbreaking method to inject platelets in the uterine lining for better embryo implantation. This involves using a patient’s own blood components to promote the healing and regeneration of a poor endometrial quality.
Understanding Endometrial Thickness
Endometrial quality is important for successful embryo implantation. The endometrium is a delicate tissue that can be damaged by infection or after surgery that leads to scarring such as Ashermann’s syndrome. Hence, adequate endometrial thickness is paramount for making IVF pregnancy possible.
Oftentimes, thin endometrium causes recurrent implantation failure (RIF) preventing a good embryo for implanting. Another cause of implantation failure is the lack of coordination of embryos with the endometrium. These cells can have an asynchronous window of implantation (WOI) when the embryo’s development and the endometrium is unreceptive.
Many studies have demonstrated that poorer IVF success rates occur when the endometrium is less than 7 mm in thickness. PRP has shown the ability to increase thinning and induce embryo implantation. This means that a sufficient endometrial thickness has a positive correlation with successful IVF pregnancy.
Thin Endometrium and Infertility
One of the biggest symptoms of thin endometrium is infertility. If the endometrium is too thin, it will not be sufficient enough to anchor a fertilized egg. This may result in early miscarriage or a defective placenta that fails to provide sufficient oxygen to the fetus.
As a woman gets older, her estrogen level decreases. Her blood vessels inside the endometrium become less flexible and harder to heal. Uterine scarring and hormonal imbalances such as PCOS can also interfere with the development of a healthy endometrium, making it too thin for infertility.
What is Platelet-rich Plasma for Endometrial Receptivity?
Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrated product of blood done to harvest a large number of platelets. This PRP is infused into the endometrial cavity to modulate its immune environment and microbial community. It then prepares a surface for the embryo to attach to the endometrium. Conducting an endometrial receptivity analysis will help assess whether the endometrium is sufficient for implantation.
This is where Endo PRP becomes a tremendous part of the implantation process. It offers a promising treatment for thickening the uterine lining to improve chances of pregnancy following an IVF embryo transfer.
By growing the activation of endometrial stem cells, PRP restores the needed endometrial tissue and releases additives in embryo implantation.
Who is a Good Candidate for Endo PRP?
Women who have experienced multiple failed embryo transfers can consider endometrial platelet-rich plasma treatment. This can be recommended for couples who have limited embryos for use.
Endo PRP Procedure for Recurrent Implantation Failure
PRP is infused directly into the uterine cavity to support the growth of endometrial thickness for 5 days before an embryo transfer.
1. Blood Collection
A small blood sample is drawn from the arms of the patient. This does not require any anesthesia or fasting.
2. Platelet Separation
The blood is placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma from the red blood cells. They will be transferred into an intrauterine catheter for the next procedure.
3. PRP Injection into the Endometrium
A spectrum will be infused into the patient’s vagina to observe your cervix. Then, the clinician will insert a soft, thin catheter through the cervix opening into the uterus to introduce the PRP.
You may return to normal activities after the procedure. Going under a standard infertility testing is a must before deciding if this is the right treatment for you.
How PRP Treatment Increases Pregnancy Rates?
Studies have shown encouraging results in using PRP as a treatment for thin endometrium and RIF. It has therapeutic effects on the placenta that provides essential factors for cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration. This mechanism improves endometrial receptivity and ultimately improves pregnancy outcomes.
PRP’s anti-inflammatory characteristics are vital in generating a conducive environment for the uterine wall. Preclinical trials have found better endometrial receptivity, expression of proliferative genes, and pregnancy rates.
Uses of Endo PRP Treatment
Endo PRP offers targeted benefits for endometrial health and implantation success. It is primarily pursued for:
- Addressing RIF: Administered to women with repeated IVF failures due to poor endometrial receptivity.
- Improving Embryo Implantation Rates: Helps endometrial receptivity and increases successful embryo implantation.
- Improving Pregnancy Results: Studies suggest PRP optimizes pregnancy rates in women with previous IVF failures.
- Improving Endometrial Thickness: Used for patients with thin endometrium to improve implantation rates in IVF.
It becomes a safe and minimally invasive option to support endometrial regeneration and improve outcomes in women facing infertility.
The Potential of Endo PRP
Older eggs are known to form poorer quality embryos. Additionally, failed IVF implantation or early miscarriage is prevalent.
This is why PRP offers new hope for individuals seeking to improve fertility outcomes. When the right embryo synchronizes with the endometrium, PRP creates a potential alternative for addressing endometrial complications that accompany fertility treatments.
Consulting your fertility specialist is necessary to understand your best option.
Ready to Begin Your Parenthood Journey?
If you are looking for expert advice on your fertility journey, Fertility Philippines is here to ease your worries, provide you with enhanced care, and guide you in every step. Let us help you start your IVF journey as hopeful as possible. Our team of trained professionals ensures you are in the right hands.
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