Overview—Female Infertility
Discover the basics of female infertility, understanding its causes and impact.
Stem cell treatment for female infertility is emerging as a promising medical breakthrough. This innovative approach harnesses the power of stem cells to address various causes of infertility in women. By focusing on the underlying issues, stem cell treatment offers a new ray of hope for those struggling to conceive. This article delves into how stem cell therapy is revolutionizing the field of reproductive medicine, providing new solutions for female infertility.
According to the WHO, female infertility is the inability of a woman to get pregnant after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse (six months for women over thirty-five years).
The main symptom of infertility is the inability to get pregnant. Women suffering from infertility might also have menstrual cycles that are too long (more than 35 days apart) or too short (less than 21 days apart).
Don't let female infertility go unexplored – prioritize your health and schedule your fertility consultation today.
What tests are required to diagnose female infertility?
Let's learn about the key tests and evaluations in diagnosing infertility in women.
Several tests might be required, depending on your symptoms, but some of the common ones are:
- A blood test to determine if you are ovulating
- Ovarian reserve testing to check for the remaining number of eggs in both ovaries
- Hormone testing, in which levels of ovulatory and pituitary hormones are checked
- Imaging tests like a pelvic ultrasound to rule out uterine or ovarian disease.
Are you or your loved one diagnosed with female infertility?
Do not get disheartened!
There are several options to treat female infertility and fulfill your dream of getting to live the beautiful phase of motherhood.
This must have made you excited to learn about them, right?
So, here you go!
Stem Cell Treatment for Female Infertility
Infertility, affecting one in eight couples globally, can be a heartbreaking journey. While established options like IVF offer a ray of hope, diminished ovarian reserve or compromised ovarian function present significant challenges for some women. This is where stem cell therapy emerges as a promising frontier, wielding the unique power to revitalize and rejuvenate reproductive tissues.
Stem cells, with their remarkable ability to self-renew and transform into different cell types, hold immense potential in tackling female infertility at its core.
Let's delve into the types of stem cells playing a key role:
1. Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs): These powerhouses reside in bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cords. Their exceptional immunomodulatory and regenerative properties allow them to migrate to damaged ovarian tissue, promoting healing and potentially stimulating the growth of new follicles, the sac-like structures housing eggs.
2. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)-resistant Ovarian Tissue Stem Cells (FOTS): These rare gems dwell within the ovaries themselves, playing a crucial role in egg development. Studies suggest that isolated FOTS, when transplanted back into the ovary, may revitalize ovarian function, offering hope for women with diminished ovarian reserve.
The potential benefits of stem cell therapy for female infertility are truly compelling:
- Enhanced Ovarian Function: By promoting tissue repair and follicular growth, stem cells could potentially increase the number and quality of viable eggs, even in women with diminished ovarian reserve.
- Improved Endometrial Receptivity: Stem cells may optimize the lining of the uterus (endometrium), creating a more welcoming environment for embryo implantation.
- Reduced Inflammation: The immunomodulatory properties of stem cells may help control chronic inflammation in the reproductive system, another potential culprit behind infertility.
While still in its nascent stages, stem cell therapy for female infertility holds immense promise. Ongoing clinical trials are meticulously evaluating its safety and efficacy, paving the way for future advancements in reproductive medicine.
Unlock new possibilities with stem cell treatment for female infertility. Take charge of your health and your life – contact us today to explore personalized solutions.
It's essential to remember that stem cells come in various forms, each with its characteristics:
- Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs): Derived from early-stage embryos, ESCs possess exceptional differentiation potential but raise significant ethical concerns.
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs): As mentioned earlier, these readily accessible and ethically neutral cells from bone marrow or adipose tissue are currently the preferred choice for female infertility treatment.
- Spermatogonial Stem Cells (SSCs): Found in the testes, SSCs hold exciting potential in male infertility treatment, but research is still in its early stages.
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs): These reprogrammed adult cells offer an ethically sound alternative to ESCs, but significant hurdles remain in their clinical translation.
While still in its early stages, stem cell therapy for female infertility holds immense potential. Ongoing clinical trials are meticulously evaluating its safety and efficacy, paving the way for future advancements in reproductive medicine.
Popular Treatments for Female Infertility
Over the years, several treatments have been developed to treat female infertility. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Fertility medicines like clomiphene citrate or anti-estrogens to regulate ovulation
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
- Using donor eggs
A simple guide to understanding these powerful cells
But how exactly do stem cells treat female infertility, you ask?
Well, they encourage the repair of the damaged ovaries and the formation of oocytes (or eggs).
Have you ever heard of another treatment that also gives this result?
Is Stem Cell Treatment for Female Infertility FDA Approved?
Stem cell treatment for female infertility is still undergoing clinical trials and is not FDA-approved. However, all the trials have shown promising results in reversing female infertility.
A research paper by Sarama Saha, Partha Roy, Cynthia Corbitt, and Sham S. Kakar, published in July 2021, explains the scope and future of stem cell treatments for female infertility in further detail.
First, the researchers examined the various types of stem cells. They also investigated several other therapies that treat female infertility.
They concluded that although embryonic stem cells have shown good potential, they are shrouded in several ethical issues. Mesenchymal stem cells derived from the bone marrow are the next best option.
They also stated that stem cell therapy “brings a ray of hope” to people for whom Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) has failed. Although a lot of science is still left undiscovered in this field, the potential is immense.
They also stated that stem cell treatment can resolve genetic issues economically and is less invasive, which most couples prefer.
Does Stem Cell Treatment Work for Female Infertility?
Stem cell treatment has shown several benefits in treating female infertility. While the treatment is still in its initial stages, it has shown a positive impact in helping women conceive.
Yes, you read that right!
You are now closer to achieving your dream of parenthood!
But now you must be wondering, how does it work?
Stem cells have numerous functions that can help treat a wide variety of diseases. The five properties listed below specifically help in treating female infertility:
- They can replace and repair dead and damaged cells. Additionally, they have a ‘self-homing property,’ which means they can locate the damaged cells without direction.
- They activate dormant and suppressed cells, kickstarting cell division. This helps increase the number of new cells in the body.
- Stem cells secrete various enzymes, cytokines, and proteins, which promote cell proliferation, and inhibit the death of functional cells.
- Stem cells have an immunosuppressive function toward the natural killer cells of our bodies, enabling the cells to live longer.
- They promote the recovery of inter-cellular signaling, thus enhancing cellular functions.
Eligibility
Is every patient suffering from female infertility eligible to undergo stem cell treatment?
Not yet.
All clinical trials have a strict set of requirements that are tailored to their studies. Some of the common ones are:
- Women should be of fertile age (between 25 and 40 years)
- The patient should have a previous history of uterine ruptures, D&C for missed abortion, or an incomplete abortion.
- There should be no structural abnormalities in the reproductive system.
- There should be no previous history of myomectomy or polypectomy.
- There should be no history of malignancies.
Benefits and Risks
Like every medical treatment, stem cell treatment also has its benefits and risks.
Benefits | Risks |
Can increase the number of eggs in the ovaries
| Infection at the site of transplantation
|
Less invasive treatment
| Nerve damage
|
Relatively cost-effective
| Graft-versus-host disease if donor cells are used
|
Cost of Stem Cell Treatment for Female Infertility
What is the cost of the treatment? you surely might have this question running in your mind, right?
Indeed, this is the most crucial and obvious question that everyone has!
Well, the cost of stem cell treatment for female infertility depends on several factors like the severity of the issues causing infertility, the number of cycles required, and the type of stem cells used.
The facility and city you choose for your treatment also weigh into the total cost.
In India, each stem cell cycle costs 2000 USD, with the total expense ranging from 6300 to 7200 USD (4.72 to 5.40 lakhs INR).
In comparison, the same treatment can cost up to 50,000 USD in the US.
Navigate the cost of stem cell treatment for female infertility wisely. Take the first step to recovery – get in touch with us for personalized treatment options tailored to your needs.
Procedure
Are you wondering just what the procedure for this treatment is?
We have brought all the details for you.
The procedure for stem cell treatment is quite simple, and can be divided into three steps:
Procedure | Description |
Step 1: Extraction of Stem Cells |
|
Step 2: Separation of stem cells from the other bone marrow tissue |
|
Step 3: Stem Cell Transplant |
|
While the whole procedure can be done in one day, it is preferable to split them over two or three days to keep the patient comfortable. After keeping the patient under observation for a few hours to one day, they are given a discharge.
What to Expect After Stem Cell Treatment for Female Infertility?
Immediately after undergoing a cycle of stem cell treatment, the patient might feel some nausea or dizziness. This only lasts for a few hours and resolves itself.
You will be advised to avoid strenuous physical activity for the next week, although you can return to your daily routine after one or two days.
What about side effects, you ask?
You will be happy to know that no long-term side effects have been reported by any clinical trial so far. Stem cell treatment is completely safe.
When will you start seeing results?
This is a tricky question with no single answer.
It varies from person to person and depends on several factors like how advanced the infertility is, and the age of the patient, among other things.
Several American studies have reported that after the injection of stem cells, the size of the ovary increases, and the level of estrogen doubles for up to one year after the procedure.
You will start seeing initial improvements like regularization of the menstrual cycle and ovulation within three to four weeks after stem cell treatments.
The results last for up to twelve months after the treatment.
Success Rates
Success rates heavily depend on the age of the patient and the extent of their infertility. In women around the age of twenty-five, the success rate is as high as 79%.
However, for women in their forties, the stem cell pregnancy rate drops to around 30%.
Stem Cell Therapy vs IVF
According to the US National Library of Medicine, In Vitro Fertilization is the fertilization of an egg by the sperm outside the body. It is currently one of the most successful tools in the ART arsenal and is the treatment of choice in a majority of female infertility cases.
Are you confused about whether you should go for IVF treatment or stem cell therapy?
Don’t worry!
We have made a comparison table to help you better understand the difference between these two treatments.
IVF | Stem Cell Therapy |
It involves the extraction of eggs from the ovary. | It involves the formation of more eggs in the human body. |
It is an artificial method of conception done outside the body. | The treatment helps in achieving natural conception. |
Each cycle of IVF costs 2 to 2.5 lakhs INR in India. | Each cycle of stem cell therapy costs 1 to 1.5 lakhs INR in India. |
Another emerging treatment is stem cell IVF. It combines both these treatments, giving significantly more effective results.
The stem cells aid in improving the health of the uterus, reducing the chances of a miscarriage. However, this treatment is still in a very early stage and will require several more trials before it can become a part of mainstream medicine.
Explore your reproductive options: Stem Cell Therapy vs. IVF. Your well-being is our priority – call us to book your appointment today and make informed decisions about your fertility journey.
Where Can I Get Stem Cell Treatment for Female Infertility?
At present, clinical trials are ongoing in several countries like USA, UK, India, and Thailand. However, while deciding on the facility where you will receive treatment, it is necessary to verify their credentials and thoroughly research their protocols.
Don’t you think stem cell treatment is the future of female infertility treatment?
So, what are you thinking?
It is time to accept this “Good News” to welcome the biggest good news in your life- pregnancy!
Future of Stem Cell Research in Treating Female Infertility
While stem cell therapy for female infertility is still in its early stages, the future holds an exciting and promising landscape. Research is actively pushing boundaries, exploring new avenues to unlock the full potential of stem cells in tackling various infertility challenges.
Here's a glimpse into what the future might hold:
Enhanced Cell Targeting: Techniques are being developed to deliver stem cells more precisely to the ovary, maximizing their impact on follicles and egg development. Think of it like sending tiny, specialized mail delivery drones straight to their destination for maximum efficiency.
Harnessing Different Stem Cell Types: Researchers are investigating other types of stem cells beyond mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), like ovarian follicular stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Each type offers unique possibilities, opening up a wider toolbox for tailored therapies.
Combating Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the reproductive system can hinder fertility. Future research aims to leverage stem cells' anti-inflammatory properties to create a more welcoming environment for egg development and embryo implantation.
Genetic Repair and Regeneration: The ability to edit genes within stem cells holds immense potential. Imagine correcting specific genetic defects that contribute to infertility, paving the way for healthier egg production.
Personalized Stem Cell Lines: Creating stem cell lines specific to each woman could be a game-changer. Think of it as having personalized "building blocks" perfectly matched to your body, minimizing rejection and boosting treatment efficacy.
Artificial Ovary Development: Though futuristic, researchers are exploring the possibility of using stem cells to bioengineer miniature ovarian structures that could mimic natural egg production. This could revolutionize treatment for women with severe ovarian dysfunction.
Ethical Considerations: As research progresses, ensuring ethical practices and responsible development remains crucial. Open communication, informed consent, and clear regulations are essential to guide this promising field responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What diseases can be treated through stem cells?
Where will the cells be taken or sourced from?
Will stem cell therapy have any after effects?
Will there be medications and diet restrictions following stem cell therapy?
Is stem cell therapy permanent?
What precautions to take post stem cell therapy?
What’s the cost of stem cell therapy in India?
For whom is stem cell therapy recommended and beneficial?