PRP treatment is the abbreviated name of platelet enriched plasma treatment method. This application is based on the separation of a small amount of blood (approximately 10 ml) taken from a person into its components after being placed in a special separation kit and subjected to centrifugation, and the small amount of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) obtained is given back to the same person by injection.

The blood circulating in the human body contains erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells) and platelets (platelets). When damage occurs in the human body, platelets and leukocytes migrate to the site of damage. Platelets, which are normally involved in blood clotting, also contain various growth factors and proteins that can stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.

Platelets – also known as platelets – are blood components that contain the “growth factors” necessary to repair damaged tissues in our body and return them to their natural state. When any damage occurs in our tissues, our blood starts a repair process by collecting platelets into this tissue. The purpose of PRP application is to deliver much more platelets to this target tissue than can be transported by blood circulation. Thus, the repair of the damaged tissue begins quickly and strongly and the results are fast.

Because the platelet density obtained with PRP is 4 to 6 times higher than the whole blood circulating in your veins.

PRP is used in a variety of medical fields including orthopedics, dermatology, dentistry, urology, plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. Today, PRP is also used in gynecology practice and IVF treatments with various indications.

For the application, approximately 10cc of blood is taken from the person himself/herself. The blood is centrifuged by means of special kits and the plasma rich in platelets is separated from other components. The plasma obtained is separated and preserved according to the area to be applied.

Today, PRP is also used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and has become an additional therapy method to conventional treatments. Platelets contain numerous growth factors and bio-active proteins that have been shown to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. Thanks to these effects, it has a stimulating effect on tissue regeneration.

Although research on the use of PRP in in vitro fertilization is still ongoing, there are many studies in the literature reporting potential benefits in certain indications.

The procedure simply starts with a small amount of blood collection for the preparation of PRP. After the PRP is prepared, the plasma obtained is either injected directly into the lining of the uterus called the endometrium, or it is taken through a thin catheter and applied to the endometrial area, along with the insemination process. This method of application is completely painless and does not require anesthesia.

PRP has been investigated for its ability to increase the receptivity of the endometrium and support implantation, and its potential benefits have been seen especially in patients with thin endometrium and in patients with recurrent implantation failure or recurrent pregnancy loss. Growth factors and proteins in PRP may increase the blood flow, quality and receptivity of the endometrium and is believed to potentially lead to increased success rates in IVF.

Endometrial PRP can be applied in the following patient groups:

1. Patients with thin endometrium whose uterine wall does not thicken despite various treatments
2. Cases with recurrent implantation failure and negative results in repeated IVF treatments
3. Cases with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss after all tests have been performed

The point that should not be forgotten in all these treatments is that although the results related to PRP are promising, the use of PRP in IVF applications is still considered as an experimental and developing treatment approach. Research is ongoing to determine its effectiveness and optimal protocols.

PRP treatment is generally considered safe as it uses the patient’s own platelets. Therefore, the risk of adverse reactions or complications is minimal. However, as with any medical procedure, there can be potential side effects.

Some possible side effects of PRP treatment are:

1. Infection: Although rare, there is a small risk of infection at the injection site. To minimise this risk, it is important to ensure proper sterilisation and follow all post-procedure care instructions.
2. Allergic reaction: Although very rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to the anticoagulant used in the preparation of PRP. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis. If an allergic reaction is suspected, urgent medical attention should be sought.