Stem Cells in Reproductive Medicine

Stem cells in reproductive medicine have opened up new frontiers in the treatment and management of infertility. Such therapies utilize the regenerative capabilities of stem cells to enhance fertility both in males and females. From ovarian rejuvenation to improvement of sperm quality, breakthroughs in the field of stem cells are redefining ways towards fertility treatment. In this article, we’ll find an answer to the question ‘how are stem cells linked to reproduction’, and will learn about their potential applications, costs, and stem cell research for reproductive medicine.

What Are Stem Cells in Reproductive Medicine?

One may be wondering, ‘Are stem cells used in reproduction?’ Stem cells, especially mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been found to be highly efficient in reproductive medicine, more so in addressing infertility issues.

• Mesenchymal stem cell for reproduction purposes have the ability to secrete growth factors that promote tissue repair, angiogenesis, and immune modulation. This makes them very beneficial for restoring ovarian and endometrial function.
• Folliculogenesis and spermatogenesis may be supported by MSCs, both in women, by improving follicular development and oocyte quality, and in men, by supporting sperm production. Their effects help regulate cellular environments that are conducive to fertility.

The Role of Stem Cells within Fertility Treatments

When searching for the answer to the question, ‘Are stem cells used in reproduction?’, one discovers that stem cell research offers a range of promising applications:

• Stem cells have the potential to promote rejuvenation of ovarian function, stimulating tissue regeneration and new oocyte development.
• These could help in the production of healthier eggs, which is very important for successful conception in IVF. 
• Stem cells might improve the uterine lining’s condition so that it becomes a better site for embryo attachment, reducing implantation failure. 
• In males, this therapy assists in spermatogenesis, a process of sperm production. 

The factors that influence success include the patient’s age, health status, and the underlying causes of infertility. 

Types of Stem Cells Used in Reproductive Therapies

When searching for the answer to ‘how are stem cells linked to reproduction’, it is important to understand which types of cells are involved. MSCs are widely used stem cells for reproduction because of their regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. These are obtained from the bone marrow, fat, or umbilical cord tissue.

• Using mesenchymal stem cell for reproduction induce the repair of damaged tissue by releasing growth factors and cytokines, improving blood flow and supporting the regeneration of ovarian follicles, thereby restoring normal ovarian function. 
• In cases of Asherman’s syndrome (scarred uterus) or thin lining of the endometrium, MSCs are used to enhance the health and thickness of the uterine lining in women.
• The immunomodulatory properties of MSCs helps in controlling the activity of the immune system and decreases inflammation in women suffering from recurrent implantation failure.

Other options, such as endometrial stem cells and reproduction, are being researched but are not yet widely applied in treatment.

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Stem Cell Therapy for Ovarian Rejuvenation

Stem cell therapy for ovarian rejuvenation is a novel approach that focuses on the restoration of ovarian function, especially in infertile women with conditions such as POI or diminished ovarian reserve.

• Stimulation in growth and maturation of ovarian follicles.
• Blood vessel formation within the ovaries will also be facilitated, which is very important in supplying nutrition and maintaining the health of ovaries.

Stem cells in reproductive medicine are especially indicated for:

• Poor ovarian response in women undergoing IVF treatments.
• Those with premature ovarian insufficiency, where normal ovarian function is lost prematurely. There is a promising role of stem cells in reproductive aging-related conditions.
• Individuals who wish to increase their fertility potential with advancing age.

Can Stem Cells Be Used to Improve Egg Quality?

Stem cells for reproduction have the potential to improve egg quality, addressing infertility issues effectively. Here are key points on the benefits of stem cells in human reproduction:

• Stem cells support rejuvenation of the ovarian tissue for better quality eggs, hence making successful fertilization possible during the process of IVF.
• Stem cell therapy may enhance the thickness of the uterine lining and, thus, increase embryo implantation to successfully result in pregnancy post-IVF.

Can Stem Cells Help Men With Low Sperm Count?

Yes, stem cells can be of help to men with low sperm count through therapies. This therapy can support regeneration of the sperm-producing cells in the testes, which in turn increases sperm count and generally improves the health and function of the sperm. Improvement in sperm count and quality may also be observed within a few months following the treatment.

Is Stem Cell Therapy for Fertility an Alternative to IVF?

Stem cells for reproduction is being researched as a possible complementary method that can be used along with traditional in vitro fertilization treatments.

The improvements in egg quality and better implantation of the embryo might improve the success rates of IVF procedures. This means that while stem cells can complement IVF, they are not a standalone replacement for the process.

Stem Cells in Male Fertility Treatment

Stem cells for reproduction can support regeneration of damaged testicular tissue caused by trauma, hormonal imbalances, or environmental toxins. This can result in the stimulation of healthy sperm production. In this regard, stem cell therapy could be a supportive treatment for men suffering from conditions such as azoospermia-no sperm-or oligospermia-low sperm count.

Finding the Right Clinic for Stem Cell Reproductive Treatments

Finding the right clinic offering stem cell in reproductive medicine can be challenging due to the complexity of the therapy and the varying levels of expertise among clinics. You need to take into consideration the experience of the clinic, the treatment options available, success rates, and adherence to safety standards to ensure quality care.

Choosing Swiss Medica for stem cell therapy means taking a step toward better health:

• We pride ourselves on tailoring treatments to your own specific needs, from taking and using stem cells in the reproductive system to employing the most advantageous methods of delivery in a particular situation.
• Fertility specialists committed to creating improved chances of parenthood for patients through advanced stem cell therapy combine expertise with personal regard for every patient.
• With much more affordable solutions in Serbia, we can offer highly qualitative treatments at a fraction of the cost compared with many other clinics worldwide. At Swiss Medica, patients can receive stem cell treatment for €7,000 to €31,000*, which depends on the treatment plan and any additional procedures.
• With Belgrade having great international connections, traveling to treatment at the Swiss Medica clinic and hospital is convenient, therefore you will be able to focus on your health journey.

Swiss Medica hospital in Serbia

Recovery Time and Expected Outcomes

Most patients recover relatively fast after injections of stem cells. In most cases, patients can return to normal activities within a few days after the procedure.

After the initial treatment, regular follow-ups are important to help assess improvements in ovarian function or sperm production depending on the focus of the treatment and manage side effects. Improvement in fertility metrics may take time to appear, often becoming noticeable around three months post-treatment.

Expected outcomes

• In women with conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency who undergo therapy with stem cells for reproduction, women may regain their menstrual cycles and experience improved ovarian function and hormone levels.
• Not all patients get pregnant, but there is a promising role of stem cells in reproductive biology, such as an increase in fertility potential. This treatment is believed to revitalize ovarian tissue and improve egg quality, increasing the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization.
• In men, spermatogonial stem cell-based therapies have shown promising results for restoring sperm production, especially in conditions like azoospermia or oligospermia. Success rates can be high if viable SSCs are present.

Safety, Risks, and Ethical Considerations

Therapies with stem cells in reproductive medicine are safe if done under professional supervision. Other minor risks and side effects may include:

• Mild inflammation, redness, or tenderness at the site of injection of stem cells; 
• A low-grade fever or flu-like symptoms; 
• Mild pain or discomfort from the site of injection. 

These minor side effects resolve in a few days and are usually temporary.

Embryonic stem cells are researched for applications within reproductive medicine, but their use involves the destruction of human embryos to obtain such cells. There are significant moral debates and opposition to this, which have reduced the development of therapies using embryonic stem cells. Mesenchymal stem cells are obtained from adult tissues, such as bone marrow or fat tissue, without any ethical concerns.

Breakthroughs in Reproductive Medicine Using Stem Cells 

Recent breakthroughs in using stem cells for reproduction have opened new avenues for treating infertility, enhancing fertility preservation, and improving reproductive health outcomes. Here are some significant advancements in stem cell research for reproductive medicine:

• Fertilo is a treatment that utilizes StemRNA Clinical Seed Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to create ovarian support cells and mature eggs outside the body. This approach improves IVF success rates while reducing hormonal stimulation. 
• Scientists are working to develop techniques of producing gametes from stem cells for new hope for childless couples.
• Kyoto University researchers develop early-stage sperm and egg cells from human stem cells through In Vitro Gametogenesis. This involves the use of specific culture conditions with signaling molecules such as BMP that help address infertility challenges.
• SSCs are the kinds of cells that possess the capability to regenerate sperm production. Cultured SSCs that were transplanted into the testes of infertile males expressed promise for restoring fertility.
• Stem cell-containing ovarian tissue freezing for fertility preservation is possible prior to chemotherapies. This can be later re-implanted and restore hormones and fertility.
• The connection between endometrial stem cells and reproduction is also being researched. It holds significant promise for treating various reproductive health issues, repair damaged endometrium, which can lead to conditions like Asherman syndrome. 
• Role of stem cells in reproductive aging-related conditions, like ovarian stem cells, is being explored for treating premature ovarian failure (POF).

Frequently Asked Questions About Stem Cell Therapy in Reproductive Medicine

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Dr. Aleksandra Fetyukhina, MD Author

Medical Advisor, Swiss Medica doctor

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Medical Advisor, Swiss Medica doctor