Advanced Technology
Intrauterine Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Fertility North is one of the few clinics in Western Australia offering Intrauterine Platelet‑Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy as an innovative adjunct to conventional fertility treatment. First introduced through a clinical trial in 2019, it remains available for carefully selected patients who meet specific clinical criteria.
What is Intrauterine PRP therapy?
Intrauterine Platelet‑Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, also known as Autologous Platelet‑Rich Plasma (A‑PRP) intrauterine instillation, is an emerging and experimental procedure being explored as a way to support the uterine lining in selected patients undergoing fertility treatment.
A‑PRP intrauterine instillation involves using a small sample of your own blood to create a concentrated platelet‑rich plasma. Red blood cells are removed, leaving platelets that are rich in growth factors and cytokines, which may assist with tissue repair and cellular regeneration.
This platelet‑rich plasma is then placed directly into the uterus with the aim of supporting the endometrial environment. While early studies are encouraging, this treatment remains experimental and does not guarantee improved outcomes.
Who may be considered for Intrauterine PRP?
Intrauterine PRP may be discussed with patients where standard treatment approaches have not achieved the desired outcome. This may include patients with:
- Recurrent implantation failure (RIF)
- Thin or suboptimal endometrial lining
- Asherman’s syndrome (intrauterine scarring)
Your doctor will carefully assess your medical history, treatment response, and individual circumstances to determine whether you meet the clinical criteria for this procedure. Not all patients will be suitable, and PRP will only be offered if your specialist believes it may be appropriate.
What do we know about Intrauterine PRP?
- The potential effects of PRP appear to be short‑term, typically limited to a single treatment cycle
- A‑PRP is considered an adjunctive treatment, not a standalone or curative therapy
- Some studies suggest potential benefits in selected patients, but results vary
As with many emerging therapies, further research is required to better understand its role in assisted reproduction.
What is still unknown?
Despite growing interest in intrauterine PRP, there are important gaps in current evidence. For these reasons, Intrauterine PRP must be regarded as experimental, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Patients undergoing this treatment will be closely monitored, with outcome data collected in line with requirements for an innovative procedure.
Further independent information about platelet‑rich plasma in fertility treatment is available through the University of Melbourne, which outlines current research and considerations in more detail.
Live birth outcomes
Evidence regarding the impact of intrauterine PRP on live birth outcomes is still evolving. While published reviews of PRP in reproductive medicine have reported potential improvements in implantation and clinical pregnancy rates, robust data demonstrating a clear and consistent improvement in live birth outcomes remains limited.
Further well‑designed and standardised studies are required to better define the role of intrauterine PRP within fertility treatment.
Long-term Safety
Due to the relatively small number of patients treated worldwide, long-term outcomes remain unclear.
What are the risks of Intrauterine PRP?
No medical procedure is without risk. Your doctor will discuss potential risks with you in detail and how they may relate to your individual situation.
Because your own blood is used, there is no risk of cross‑infection.
Risk of Infection
Although strict sterile techniques are used, a very small risk remains.
Risk of Cramping or Discomfort
Mild abdominal discomfort may occur during the procedure but usually resolves quickly.
Lack of Response
The treatment may not improve endometrial thickness or receptivity.
No pregnancy outcome
Successful implantation or pregnancy cannot be guaranteed.
Unknown long-term Risks
As this is a novel procedure, long-term safety data is limited.
Learn more about fertility
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