Treatments & Services

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment

Ovarian and Uterine PRP: An Emerging Option in Fertility Care

At Flinders Fertility, we understand that many patients are searching for additional ways to support their fertility journey, particularly when facing challenges such as low ovarian reserve or issues with endometrial thickness. One treatment that is receiving growing interest is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), a technique that uses a concentrated preparation of growth-factor-rich plasma derived from your own blood.

Although PRP is considered experimental in Australia, it may be suitable for carefully selected patients, and is offered only after comprehensive discussion with one of our fertility specialists.

What PRP Is and How It Works

PRP begins with a simple step: a sample of your blood (between 20 and 60 mL) is collected and processed in our onsite lab by embryologists using specialised equipment. This separates the components of your blood and isolates the platelet-rich layer - the portion containing high levels of growth factors associated with tissue repair and cellular activity. This processed PRP is then used in two reproductive applications: Ovarian PRP and Intrauterine PRP.

Ovarian PRP

Ovarian PRP (sometimes called "ovarian rejuvenation") involves infusing the PRP directly into the ovarian tissue. This is most often done during an IVF egg collection, using the same sedation and ultrasound-guided technique used for retrieving eggs. For some patients, it can also be performed during gynaecological procedures such as hysteroscopy in a private hospital setting. Early research suggests that Ovarian PRP may stimulate follicular activity and potentially increase egg numbers in subsequent cycles, although results vary and large-scale studies are still emerging.

Intrauterine PRP

Intrauterine PRP is a simpler, non-sedated clinic procedure where a soft catheter gently introduces PRP into the uterine cavity. Patients remain on the transfer bed for 15 minutes after the procedure. Many patients describe it as similar to a standard embryo transfer. This infusion can be performed in the cycle before an embryo transfer or 1-3 months in advance, or multiple times, depending on your treatment plan. The goal of Intrauterine PRP is to support the endometrial lining, particularly in people who have had difficulty achieving adequate thickness with standard therapies.

What You Can Expect During and After the Procedure

Whether performed in the theatre or the clinic, PRP procedures are designed to be straightforward and minimally invasive. After a blood draw, your PRP is prepared on-site and used immediately (or transported in suitable conditions if being used in a gynaecological procedure at a private hospital).

Ovarian PRP is completed under sedation during egg collection or another planned procedure. Intrauterine PRP takes less than five minutes and does not require anaesthetic. Following PRP, it is common to experience mild cramping or light spotting for 24–48 hours. Most people feel comfortable returning to normal activities after a short rest, although we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, intercourse, and tampons for the first 48 hours. Simple analgesia such as paracetamol is usually enough to relieve discomfort.

Potential Benefits and Current Limitations

One of the reasons PRP is attracting interest is that it uses your own cells, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions and avoids exposure to synthetic materials. Preliminary research has shown promising signs in certain groups, including people with low ovarian reserve and those who have experienced persistent thin endometrium.

Potential benefits include:

-Increased antral follicle count or egg yield in some low-reserve patients

-Increased endometrial thickness

-Possible improvement in embryo implantation

However, PRP is not a guaranteed intervention. Because it is off-label and still considered experimental, long-term data is limited, and results can vary. Your doctor will explore all available options with you, including conventional IVF/ICSI pathways, donor options, or other emerging treatments.

Risks and Safety Information

PRP is generally considered low-risk because the material comes from your own blood. Still, all medical procedures carry some risks, and it is important to be aware of these before making a decision. Most patients experience only mild, temporary effects such as cramping, spotting, or bruising where blood was taken. Less commonly, minor infection or bleeding can occur (in fewer than 1%). Serious complications — including ovarian injury or allergic reaction — are extremely rare. Long-term effects on fertility or offspring remain unknown, as research is ongoing. 
 

Is PRP Right for Me?

-PRP may be considered if you have had:

-a history of low egg numbers

-a consistently thin endometrial lining

-repeated unsuccessful IVF or frozen embryo transfers

-a desire to explore an evidence-informed, biologically based adjunct option

The decision to pursue PRP is highly individual. Your doctor will review your medical history, previous cycle outcomes, and current evidence to help you determine whether PRP might be beneficial for your situation.

Speak to Your Doctor

If you’re wondering whether Ovarian PRP or Intrauterine PRP may be appropriate for your fertility goals, the best place to start is a conversation with your doctor. Our team is here to guide you through all available options with transparency, compassion, and the latest scientific insight.

For Independent Advice

The University of Melbourne has an excellent resource to help you evaluate whether PRP (and other IVF add-ons) may be suitable for you.

PRP Q&As