PRP vs. IVF and IUI: How Do These Fertility Treatments Compare?

Understanding the Basics 

When it comes to fertility care, most people are familiar with traditional treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). These methods have decades of research behind them and remain the gold standard for many patients. Recently, however, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as an innovative option, offering a regenerative approach that uses your body’s own healing properties. 

PRP involves drawing a small sample of your blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, and then injecting this platelet-rich plasma into the ovaries or uterine lining. The goal? To stimulate tissue repair, improve ovarian function, and enhance endometrial receptivity—all factors that can influence conception. 

How Do They Work? 

Traditional Fertility Treatments: 

 IVF and IUI rely on hormonal stimulation and assisted reproductive technology. IVF involves retrieving eggs, fertilizing them in a lab, and transferring embryos into the uterus. IUI places sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation. These methods are well-established, with clear protocols and predictable success rates based on age and health factors. 

PRP Fertility Therapy: 

PRP takes a different approach. Instead of stimulating the ovaries with medication, it aims to rejuvenate ovarian tissue and improve egg quality through growth factors found in platelets. For the uterine lining, PRP may help increase thickness and improve implantation potential. Unlike IVF or IUI, PRP is not a standalone treatment - it’s often used as an adjunct to improve outcomes in patients with thin endometrium or diminished ovarian reserve.

Effectiveness: What Does Research Say? 

Traditional treatments have decades of data showing success rates that vary by age, diagnosis, and clinic. IVF, for example, offers the highest success rates among assisted reproductive technologies. 

PRP, on the other hand, is still considered experimental. Some studies report improvements in ovarian reserve markers (like AMH), endometrial thickness, and even pregnancy rates in women with recurrent implantation failure. However, randomized controlled trials are limited, and results are inconsistent. While PRP shows promise, it does not yet match the evidence base of IVF or IUI.

Benefits and Limitations 

PRP’s biggest advantage is that it uses your own blood, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or disease transmission. It’s minimally invasive and typically involves a short recovery time. However, PRP is not widely available, often not covered by insurance, and lacks standardized protocols. Traditional treatments, while more invasive and costly, have proven success rates and are supported by extensive research.

Which Option Is Right for You? 

If you’re considering PRP, think of it as a potential complement to - not a replacement for - traditional fertility treatments. For patients with thin uterine lining, diminished ovarian reserve, or repeated IVF failures, PRP may offer an additional layer of hope. The best approach is to consult with a fertility specialist who can evaluate your unique situation and guide you through evidence-based options. Connect with our team to start discussing your options today.