Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Infertility
Pioneering clinical applications of autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in reproductive endocrinology. Dr. Fady Sharara utilizes concentrated growth factors to treat unresponsive thin endometrial linings and explore ovarian rejuvenation in patients with diminished ovarian reserve.
Why PRP at VCRM?
100% Autologous & Safe: Derived entirely from your own blood with zero risk of rejection.
Endometrial Regeneration: Proven protocol to expand thin linings (<7mm) before FET.
Ovarian Rejuvenation: Targeted micro-infusion aimed at waking dormant follicles.
Book Consultation (703) 437-7722How Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Helps Patients Conceive
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an innovative autologous therapy that concentrates the body’s natural healing and regenerative proteins. While PRP has been utilized extensively for more than two decades in orthopedic sports medicine, reconstructive plastic surgery, wound care, and dermatology, its targeted application in reproductive endocrinology represents one of the most promising frontiers for difficult-to-treat fertility challenges.
Platelets are small, non-nucleated cellular fragments that play an indispensable role in tissue repair, angiogenesis (blood vessel formation), and cell proliferation. When activated, the alpha-granules inside platelets release a concentrated cascade of vital growth factors:
VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor)
Drives new microvascular capillary growth, dramatically enhancing uterine lining perfusion and ovarian blood supply.
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor)
Promotes cellular growth, differentiation, and re-epithelialization of the receptive endometrial surface.
PDGF (Platelet-Derived Growth Factors)
Stimulates stromal cell replication and tissue remodeling across damaged or atrophic reproductive tissues.
TGF-β1 & TGF-β2 (Transforming Growth Factors)
Directs extracellular matrix synthesis, cellular migration, and localized immune balance.
IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1)
Essential for follicular maturation, granulosa cell proliferation, and steroidal hormone synthesis.
HGF (Hepatocyte Growth Factor)
Acts as a potent morphogenic and angiogenic factor supporting tissue regeneration and recovery.
Dr. Fady Sharara Presenting at ASRM 2024
Dr. Fady Sharara is recognized internationally for his clinical research in diminished ovarian reserve and reproductive endocrinology. Watch Dr. Sharara present his insights on PRP applications and cutting-edge reproductive science at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) 2024 Scientific Congress:
Endometrial PRP for Persistent Thin Uterine Lining
An optimal endometrial thickness is crucial for successful embryo implantation. In clinical reproductive medicine:
- Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): A minimum endometrial thickness of 7.0 mm with a trilaminar pattern is clinically desired.
- Fresh Embryo Transfer: An endometrial thickness of at least 8.0 mm is preferred for peak implantation rates.
For women suffering from thin, refractory uterine linings—due to prior surgical scarring (Asherman’s syndrome), prolonged oral contraceptive use, poor pelvic vascularization, or clomiphene side effects—standard high-dose estrogen, sildenafil (Viagra), and pentoxifylline may fail. Intrauterine PRP provides a powerful alternative.
The VCRM Endometrial PRP Protocol
1. First Infusion (Cycle Days 10–12): Under sterile technique in our office, a small volume of autologous PRP (approx. 0.5–1.0 mL) is infused into the uterine cavity via a flexible, atraumatic catheter during estrogen priming.
2. Ultrasound Monitoring (48–72 Hours Later): A transvaginal ultrasound reassesses endometrial thickness and trilaminar echo-pattern.
3. Second Infusion (If Needed): If the lining remains below 7.0 mm, a second booster PRP infusion is performed, followed by a repeat scan in 48–72 hours.
4. Proceed to Transfer: Once the lining reaches ≥7 mm, progesterone supplementation begins and embryo transfer is scheduled. Most responsive patients require 1 to 2 infusions (maximum 3 per cycle).
Ovarian PRP for Rejuvenation & Diminished Reserve
Ovarian PRP (often termed "ovarian rejuvenation") was first described in clinical literature in 2016 for women with severely diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), poor response to IVF stimulation, or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).
The biological premise is based on the presence of dormant, resting primordial follicles and ovarian stem cells within the ovarian cortex that have ceased responding to conventional pituitary FSH signals. By injecting concentrated autologous growth factors directly into the ovarian stroma, PRP aims to stimulate localized vascularization and reactivate latent follicles.
Procedure Delivery
Under light IV sedation in our AAAASF-accredited surgical facility, Dr. Sharara uses a fine needle under transvaginal ultrasound guidance to inject 2 cc of autologous PRP into the cortex of each ovary. The procedure takes under 15 minutes.
1–3 Month Monitoring
Follow-up blood tests track serum AMH, FSH, and estradiol levels alongside ultrasound antral follicle counts (AFC) monthly. If follicular reactivation occurs, patients immediately proceed to an IVF stimulation cycle or attempt timed conception.
Realistic Clinical Expectations
While some women experience significant increases in AMH, higher follicle numbers, and successful pregnancies following ovarian PRP, randomized controlled trial data remains ongoing across the global reproductive field. In patients where baseline AMH is completely undetectable (<0.01 ng/mL) and baseline FSH exceeds 20 IU/L, response rates are very low. Dr. Sharara provides an honest, individualized appraisal of whether PRP or alternative solutions (such as our 100% Refund Donor Egg Plan) offer the highest chance of success.
Safety Profile & Patient Candidacy
Because PRP is derived entirely from the patient's own venous blood, it possesses an exceptional safety record:
- Zero Risk of Allergic Reaction or Rejection: Autologous preparation contains no foreign animal or synthetic proteins.
- No Transmissible Infections: Your own platelets are isolated and processed in a closed, sterile centrifuging system immediately prior to injection.
- Minimal Discomfort: Intrauterine PRP is virtually painless (similar to an IUI), while ovarian PRP is performed comfortably under light conscious sedation.
- Mild, Temporary Side Effects: Infrequent and mild side effects are limited to transient pelvic cramping or minor post-procedural spotting for 24–48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP
A standard blood draw (approximately 20–60 mL) is taken from your arm at our clinic. The blood is placed into a specialized medical centrifuge that separates red blood cells and poor plasma, isolating a highly concentrated layer of platelets and active growth factors. The entire preparation process takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Most patients with a thin endometrial lining achieve the target thickness (≥7.0 mm) after one or two intrauterine infusions during their frozen embryo transfer (FET) preparation cycle. Up to three infusions may be performed in a single cycle if needed.
Yes. Clinical case series have documented spontaneous natural pregnancies in the 1 to 6 months following ovarian PRP injection as dormant follicles develop and ovulate naturally. Couples with patent fallopian tubes and normal semen parameters are encouraged to continue timed intercourse while monitoring cycle parameters.
Because reproductive PRP is an emerging regenerative therapy, insurance carriers currently categorize it as elective. However, associated baseline diagnostic ultrasounds, blood work (AMH, FSH), and embryo transfers are often eligible for insurance coverage. Our financial coordinators provide transparent pricing and flexible financing options.
Discover If PRP Therapy Is Right For You
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fady Sharara to review your ovarian reserve, uterine history, and previous cycle responses to determine if PRP can optimize your fertility journey.
Begin Your Fertility Journey with VCRM
Experience industry-leading success rates and individualized reproductive medicine tailored to your needs.