Do PRP and MSC Therapy Improve Chances of Uterus to Accept a Pregnancy? Expert Weighs In

For many women undergoing fertility treatment, the biggest barrier is not embryo quality but the uterus's ability to accept and support a pregnancy. A thin or unresponsive endometrium (the innermost lining of the uterus) can significantly lower implantation success, even with high-quality embryos. However, in recent years, two regenerative treatments, which are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) therapy, have turned up as hopeful additions. But do they really help the uterus become more receptive to an embryo?

To break this down, we spoke to Dr Sheetal Jindal, MBBS, MD OBG, EPHM (IIM Kolkata), Senior Consultant and Medical Director, Jindal IVF, Chandigarh, who explained to us how both therapies work, and when they might be useful. Read ahead to find out.

How PRP Helps the Uterus Become More Receptive

PRP therapy has healing properties, and hence it has been used for years in orthopaedics, dermatology, and cosmetic medicine. Its application in fertility care is relatively new but increasingly promising, according to experts.

As Dr Jindal explained, "PRP and MSC therapy are two regenerative approaches that we use to strengthen the endometrium when it is not responding the way we want. Using PRP, we take a small amount of the patient's blood and concentrate the natural growth factors. When this is infused into the uterus, it can stimulate better circulation and healthier tissue regeneration. A healthier endometrium means:

• Better blood circulation
• Improved cell growth
• Better opportunity for achieving the optimum lining thickness, normally 7mm or above.
• Increased receptivity during the implantation window

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Dr Jindal added that PRP is especially beneficial for women with:

• Thin endometrial lining
• Repeated Implantation Failure (RIF)
• Poor endometrial response to hormones

Many patients notice significant improvement in lining thickness and quality after one or two cycles of PRP infusion. PRP is considered a supportive addition to IVF preparation.

How MSC Therapy Is A Deeper Regenerative Approach

While PRP works by amplifying natural growth factors, the MSC therapy introduces mesenchymal stem cells into the body, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and regenerative capabilities.

According to Dr Jindal, "MSC therapy works a little differently. These stem cells act to calm inflammation and encourage deeper tissue repair. In women whose lining is chronically unresponsive or scarred, MSCs can help rebuild a healthier structure, which builds a more stable environment for an embryo." MSC therapy can be considered when:

• There is chronic endometrial inflammation.
• Infection, surgery, or other causes, such as Asherman's syndrome have damaged this lining.
• The uterus demonstrates fibrosis or scarring
• Standard treatments do not stimulate an adequate lining.

MSCs support the remodelling of tissue at a structural level because they may facilitate long-term restoration in women who have not responded to other therapies.

How Effective Are PRP and MSC Treatments?

While PRP and MSC therapy both proved promising, they are supportive and not standalone treatments. Dr Jindal added, “So far, the results have been promising, and a good number of patients do see stronger implantation outcomes. These treatments are still considered supportive options and are best planned as part of a personalised fertility strategy for each case.”

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She further highlighted that this means the decisions depend on:

• Patient’s age
• Type of infertility problem
• History of the endometrium

Previous cycle results

“Fertility specialists will often combine these therapies with hormonal support, lifestyle optimisation, and carefully planned IVF protocols for the best results,” she added.

Are PRP and MSC Treatments Safe?

When we asked Dr Jindal if these treatments are safe, she said, “Both PRP and MSC are generally considered safe.” Here’s why:

• PRP uses your blood, which minimises the risk of reaction.
• MSC therapy employs medical-grade, screened stem cells.
• Side effects are minimal and usually confined to slight cramping during infusion.

Bottomline

PRP and MSC therapy cannot guarantee pregnancy but may significantly improve uterine receptivity, especially in women who have a thin, inflamed, or unresponsive endometrium. Together, they may enhance the chance of implantation when thoughtfully used as part of a personalised fertility plan.