The effect of intrauterine infusion of platelet-rich autoplasm on ART outcomes

Abstract

Relevance: Optimal endometrial thickness is crucial for successful embryo implantation. In this regard, various techniques have been proposed to increase the thickness of the endometrium, but achieving an effective therapeutic solution remains an unresolved problem today. Autologous
platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has attracted attention in reproductive medicine. Intrauterine infusion of PRP promotes cellular growth, formation of new vessels, and an anti-inflammatory effect, which ultimately contributes to successful implantation.
The study aimed to investigate the effect of platelet-rich plasma on endometrial thickness and outcomes of assisted reproductive technology programs.
Materials and methods: The study included 150 reproductive-age females of 18 to 40 years old. These patients had good-quality frozen embryos but had their embryo transfer in the IVF procedure canceled due to insufficient endometrial thickness (<7 mm). The study participants were divided into two groups. The first group received hormonal replacement therapy, while the second group received an intrauterine infusion of enriched platelet-rich autoplasm on the eighth and 10th day of the menstrual cycle and 48 hours before embryo transfer. The thickness of the endometrium, the frequency of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and live birth were evaluated as results.
Results: The use of platelet-rich plasma resulted in a statistically significant increase in endometrial thickness in the experimental group. The average thickness of the endometrium was 7.60 (7.17; 7.57) mm in the group of patients receiving hormone replacement therapy and 8.20 (7.69; 8.13) mm in the group receiving PRP therapy. In the first group, biochemical pregnancy occurred in 26 women (38.2%), with clinical confirmation in 24 (35.3%). In the second group, these indicators were higher and amounted to 46.5% and 45.1%. The frequency of miscarriages was significantly exceeded in the first group of patients compared to the second (12.5% vs. 6.3%, respectively).

Conclusion: Our research data demonstrate that using PRP effectively stimulates endometrial growth, increases the frequency of successful implantation, and increases the probability of clinical pregnancy and live birth.