Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is the most common preparation used in regenerative medicine and is popular in the cosmetic and medicinal fields as it is used for vampire facials, hair growth, and wound healing. It is considered to be safe, low-cost, natural and minimally invasive, however, when we talk about the use of PRP in gynecology, it is primarily concerned with the treatment of various conditions including thin endometrium, premature ovarian failure, Has been as an assistant to the processes. Urinary incontinence, genitourinary fistulas, or even Asherman syndrome (occurring when scar tissue forms inside the uterus and/or cervix).
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy?
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sonam Tiwari, consultant obstetrics and gynecology at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, said, “There are many growth factors present in platelets. Since these platelets contain many growth factors and rich proteins when released into the human system (locally or into the blood), they benefit the regeneration and repair process of damaged cells, tissues or organs. The main advantage of PRP is its source, which is autologous, meaning it is prepared from the blood of the person undergoing treatment.
He elaborated, “As a result, there is no risk of immune response or transmission of any infection or disease from any donor. Moreover, it is also not time consuming as it takes about thirty minutes for preparation and about fifteen minutes for application. Recently, platelet-rich plasma and its application have attracted much attention in cosmetic gynecology and functional gynecological surgery. PRP stimulates new blood vessels and collagen formation with the help of growth factors released from concentrated platelets. However, this procedure is not recommended in patients with blood disorders, coagulation disorders (tendency to bleed), pregnancy, breastfeeding, active infection or cancer diagnosis.
How is PRP used for vaginal rejuvenation?
Dr. Sonam Tiwari replied, “Vaginal looseness is like a physical deformity that causes orgasmic disorders. Vaginal rejuvenation involves the management of aging and the repair of traumatic changes to the vagina (due to childbirth, episiotomy scars, cervical ectopy, lichen sclerosis, vaginal atrophy after chemotherapy, previous trauma or surgery to the vagina or vulva). A loose vagina may result in less internal friction and therefore less arousal and orgasmic dysfunction. In the long run, this can affect a woman’s sexual health and body image, leading to decreased self-esteem and reduced quality of life. For many patients who complain of vaginal atrophy and laxity, PRP is a good form of treatment in conjunction with other surgical/non-surgical treatments when needed.”
He revealed, “The second use of PRP is to improve the quality of sex life. It has been observed that PRP administration at the right places by a trained cosmetic gynecologist has helped in enhancing female sexuality with high satisfaction. Its use does not stop here; To add to the list, lack of lubrication, lack of libido, difficulty in arousal and painful intercourse can also be treated with PRP. In addition, PRP can also be applied in urogynecology as it is helpful in treating conditions such as urinary incontinence, vesicovaginal fistulas and cystocele repair as adjunctive therapy. Platelet-rich plasma contributes to strengthening the ligament around the bladder. Additionally, it helps regenerate the vaginal walls with new collagen formation, thereby strengthening the muscles and resolving stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
