November 17, 2025 Author: Marta Rodrigues Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP , is used in various areas of medicine. In aesthetic, regenerative, and functional gynecology, it is an innovative, personalized, and low-risk treatment approach. It has demonstrated promising results in several gynecological pathologies , as well as for women well-being and self-esteem. What is platelet-rich plasma and how is it obtained? PRP is prepared from the patient's own blood and is therefore an autologous product. Blood collection is performed under safety and sterile conditions. The blood is then centrifuged to separate the different components. The plasma fraction where platelets are concentrated is PRP, and this is what is injected into the area to be treated. PRP is a natural product originating from the person themselves , containing no external or synthetic substances in its composition. It concentrates plasma proteins and growth factors that stimulate tissue regeneration. It also promotes local vascularization, cell multiplication, and collagen production, thus accelerating healing, reducing local inflammation, and improving tissue hydration and elasticity by promoting regeneration. What are the uses of PRP in gynecology? Platelet-rich plasma has applications in several gynecological pathologies. Recurrent vulvar fissures , frequently associated with vaginal atrophy, chronic irritations, or hormonal changes. PRP has demonstrated effectiveness in repairing the mucosa, providing symptom relief and significant improvement in quality of life. Vaginal atrophy is a frequent problem that can arise associated with the use of hormonal contraception, postpartum, and also after menopause. The main associated complaints are dryness, fissure formation, itching, and pain/discomfort during sexual intercourse. PRP does not replace estrogens, therefore it does not replace local hormone therapy in all cases, but it is a useful alternative or complement, especially in women who cannot or do not want to use estrogens (for example, due to a history of hormone-sensitive cancer). Other genitourinary conditions in which the use of PRP has been studied are: Mild stress urinary incontinence. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Vaginismus: by regenerating tissues and reducing pain, it enhances the response to multidisciplinary treatment. Vulvar lichen sclerosus: PRP alone or in combination with a technology, such as intimate laser. Female sexual dysfunction, namely in decreased sensitivity and lubrication capacity. Postpartum and post-gynecological surgery recovery, by helping the healing process and improving tissue elasticity. Advantages and limitations of platelet-rich plasma One of the main advantages of PRP is that it is a product originating from the person being treated, which reduces the risk of adverse reactions and infections. The treatment is performed on an outpatient basis, in a consultation setting, generally with the application of local anesthesia and with a very short recovery period. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatment modalities, which should be determined by the doctor based on the evaluation of each patient. Results are not immediately visible after one treatment, and several sessions may be necessary. Results may vary from person to person, are not permanent, and it may be necessary to repeat the treatment in the medium term to maintain the benefits achieved. In conclusion Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) represents one of the most interesting innovations in modern gynecology. Using the body's own resources - platelets and their growth factors - it is possible to stimulate the natural regeneration of tissues, improve lubrication, tone, and sensitivity , addressing problems ranging from vulvovaginal fissures, vaginal atrophy, mild urinary incontinence, and lichen sclerosus, to postpartum recovery and female sexual health. This is a minimally invasive, safe, and autologous procedure , meaning it is done with the patient's own blood, without risk of rejection. The results do not appear overnight - they are progressive , following the body's regeneration time - but they tend to be natural and long-lasting. The use of platelet-rich plasma in aesthetic, regenerative, and functional gynecology is a relatively new area. Therefore, there is still no robust data on the long-term effectiveness of treatments because there are differences in the protocols for preparing the product, its administration, the number and interval between administrations, which can cause variations in the results obtained and their duration. It is important to emphasize that PRP does not replace other medical or hormonal treatments when they are necessary. Its role is complementary, regenerative, and functional, helping to restore balance and intimate comfort in a biological and personalized way. Meet the obstetrics-gynecology clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
