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couples struggle with this condition. In India, around 15 to 20 million couples are affected. Infertility in women is often linked to conditions like premature ovarian failure, endometriosis, PCOS or damage to the uterus and fallopian tubes. Standard treatments like hormone therapy, surgery or IVF do not help every patient. This is why stem cell therapy is now being explored as a possible new option. Stem cells are unique because they can develop into different types of cells in the body. Researchers are studying how these cells can regenerate or repair damaged reproductive tissues.
Stem cells can be sourced from bone marrow, umbilical cord or even fat tissue. The cells are then prepared and placed into specific reproductive organs. Though still in the early stages, the results so far are promising, with some patients reporting better fertility outcomes. If you’re exploring options, discussing stem cell therapy with a fertility specialist could be a step towards new possibilities on your journey to parenthood!
What are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are unique cells with the ability to renew themselves and develop into different specialised cell types. They act as the body’s natural repair system, replenishing other cells and forming various tissues when needed.Types of Stem Cells
- Embryonic stem cells: Pluripotent cells are taken from blastocysts, which are early-stage embryos. They can transform into any cell type and are extensively studied for regenerative medicine.
All research projects will need approval from the national bioethics panel, and any commercial benefits from embryonic stem cell lines must be shared with the donor.
- Tissue-specific stem cells: Multipotent adult stem cells are found in specific tissues, like bone marrow or skin. They can only differentiate into cell types from the tissue where they originate.
- Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs): Adult cells can be reprogrammed to an embryonic-like pluripotent state. This process offers patient-specific therapeutic potential while avoiding the ethical concerns associated with embryonic cells.
Sources of Stem Cells
- Amniotic fluid: Multipotent stem cells from amniotic fluid are collected during amniocentesis or at birth. These cells can differentiate into various cell types, like bone, muscle, or nerve cells.
- Umbilical cord: Umbilical cord blood and tissue (Wharton’s jelly) are rich in haematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells. These cells are often stored for possible future therapeutic use.
- Bone marrow: It contains haematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells. These are collected through a procedure called aspiration.
- Allograft: Stem cells from a donor, usually sourced from bone marrow or cord blood. They are used in treatments like transplants for blood disorders.
- Adipose tissue: Fat tissue provides mesenchymal stem cells through liposuction. These cells are used for regenerative therapies because they are abundant and versatile.
What is Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem cell therapy uses stem cells to treat or prevent diseases by repairing, replacing, or regenerating damaged tissues or organs. It takes advantage of the stem cells’ ability to differentiate and promote healing. This therapy is usually given through injections, infusions, or direct implantation into specific tissues.How Stem Cell Therapy Helps Treat Infertility
Stem cell therapy for infertility seeks to restore reproductive function by regenerating damaged reproductive tissues.Procedure for Male Infertility
Male infertility is often caused by low sperm count, poor sperm quality, or testicular damage. Stem cells can be used to regenerate spermatogonial cells or repair testicular tissue.- Stem cells can be harvested from sources like bone marrow or adipose tissue. They can also be derived from the patient’s skin cells as induced pluripotent stem cells or iPSCs.
- Cells are cultured and differentiated into spermatogonial stem cells or supportive testicular cells in a lab.
- The cells are injected directly into the testes or delivered through the bloodstream to promote tissue repair or sperm production.
- Post-treatment, doctors monitor sperm count, motility, and hormone levels.
Procedure for Female Infertility
Female infertility is often caused by problems like ovarian dysfunction, diminished ovarian reserve, or uterine issues. Stem therapy can help in such severe cases.- Stem cells can be sourced from bone marrow, fat tissue, or the umbilical cord. Ovarian stem cells may also be isolated directly from the patient.
- In a lab, cells are prepared or differentiated to target ovarian or endometrial cells.
- The cells are injected into the ovaries or uterus. This is done to stimulate follicle development or improve the ability of the uterus to support pregnancy.
- Doctors use hormone checks and ultrasound scans to monitor when you ovulate. These tests also help them understand how healthy your eggs are and whether implantation is likely to work.
Who Should Consider Stem Cell Therapy for Infertility?
Some groups who may benefit from stem cell therapy based on their fertility challenges are:- Women with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): Women with POI face ovarian failure before the age of 40. This results in irregular periods, low egg count, and infertility. Stem cell therapy may help by regenerating ovarian tissue or stimulating follicle growth, which could restore ovarian function.
- Women with Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR): DOR is when there is a decrease in the number or quality of eggs, commonly seen in women over 35. Stem cell therapy may improve ovarian reserve.
- Patients with critically low AMH levels: Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels reflect ovarian reserve, with low levels indicating poor egg quantity/quality. Stem cell therapy may target ovarian stem cells to increase AMH production or regenerate follicles.
- Women who have experienced early menopause: Early menopause, occurring before age 45, stops ovulation and fertility due to ovarian failure. Stem cell treatment can help restart the menstrual cycle by regenerating ovarian tissue
- Couples exploring alternatives to donor eggs: Couples dealing with female infertility often opt for donor eggs. Stem cell therapy offers a potential solution by regenerating viable eggs from the woman’s own ovaries.
- Women seeking fertility preservation: If you're at risk of losing your fertility because of cancer treatments or genetic conditions, you might want to consider stem cell therapy.
- Those who’ve had multiple failed IVF attempts: If you’ve faced repeated IVF failures, often due to poor egg quality, you can consider stem cell therapy.
Types of Stem Cells Used to Treat Female Reproductive Disorders
Stem cell therapy is bringing new hope to women facing fertility challenges. By repairing or regenerating damaged tissues, stem cells open doors to new treatments.| Disease | Stem Cell Type |
| POI |
|
| PCOS |
|
| Asherman syndrome |
|
| Endometriosis |
|
| Preeclampsia |
|
| Fallopian tube obstruction |
|
Who Is Not Eligible for Stem Cell Therapy for Infertility?
Stem cell therapy for infertility is not suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors make some individuals ineligible.- Smokers
- Women with vaginal infections
- History of malignant tumours/cancer
- People diagnosed with Hepatitis Virus, AIDS, and Syphilis
- People affected by neurological disorders
- People diagnosed with Diabetes or Thyroid Issues
What is the Cost of Stem Cell Therapy in India?
The cost of stem cell transplants in India ranges from Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs, depending on the type of transplant. For instance, autologous stem cell transplants are typically less expensive than allogeneic stem cell transplants.The overall cost of a stem cell transplant will also depend on factors like your location, any preexisting health conditions, and additional medical bills or procedures that may be required.
Stem cell therapy is opening up exciting new possibilities in fertility treatment, offering hope to people struggling to conceive. Though it’s still in the early stages, the therapy has shown encouraging results so far. It could be a valuable option for women whose fertility challenges haven’t been solved by traditional methods. With ongoing research and more clinical trials, stem cell therapy might soon become a key part of reproductive medicine. It could provide new chances for people wanting to expand their families.
FAQs
- What is stem cell therapy for infertility?
Stem cell therapy for infertility uses stem cells to repair damaged reproductive tissues and stimulate follicle growth. It also works to improve the ovarian environment, boosting fertility. - What is the cost of stem cell therapy in India?
The cost of stem cell therapy in India ranges from Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs.
