Platelet-Rich Plasma in Reproductive Endocrinology: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications for Ovarian Reserve, PCOS,...

Infertility remains a major global health concern, with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and impaired endometrial receptivity representing key contributors to poor assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous blood-derived concentrate enriched with growth factors and cytokines, has emerged as a promising regenerative therapy with angiogenic, anti-apoptotic, and proliferative properties. In reproductive medicine, intraovarian PRP has been evaluated for its potential to restore ovarian function in women with DOR and POI, improve oocyte competence and embryo euploidy, and promote ovulation in PCOS. Similarly, intrauterine PRP infusion or subendometrial zone injections has shown encouraging results in women with recurrent implantation failure and thin endometrium, enhancing endometrial thickness, receptivity, and implantation potential. Evidence from preclinical animal models and early clinical studies suggests multi-level mechanisms of action, including modulation of endocrine pathways, reduction in oxidative stress, activation of dormant follicles, and improvement of endometrial angiogenesis and receptivity. Despite these promising findings, results remain inconsistent due to heterogeneity in PRP preparation protocols, administration routes, timing, and study designs. Even though robust randomized controlled trials with standardized methodologies are needed to determine the efficacy and long-term reproductive outcomes of PRP in infertility treatment and anovulation in PCOS, PRP represents a novel and potentially transformative adjunct in reproductive endocrinology.