Ovarian rejuvenationPRPStem cellsMitochondrial transferRegenerative medicine

Frontier Fertility in the U.S. (1): Ovarian Rejuvenation Explained

A clear, balanced explainer of ovarian rejuvenation—what it is, who it’s for, how PRP, stem cells, and mitochondrial transfer work, plus costs, risks, and what to ask before you try.

AuthorBetterFreeze Editorial
PublishedOctober 18, 2025

Even when the ovaries are thought to have ‘stopped,’ technology is beginning to reopen possibilities. Ovarian rejuvenation aims to restore or improve ovarian function. Candidates include people with diminished ovarian reserve, those diagnosed with POI, or individuals in peri/post-menopause who still hope to conceive with their own eggs. It remains experimental, but it adds another option where there used to be none.

1) What is ovarian rejuvenation?

The goal is to stimulate the ovaries so that follicles can grow again, potentially widening the chance of conception. Clinical use has begun in limited settings, but the field is still experimental—effectiveness and long-term safety are being evaluated. Typical candidates include DOR, POI, peri/post-menopause seeking conception with own eggs, and poor responders to IVF.

2) Three approaches on the frontier

PRP therapy concentrates platelets from your own blood and injects them into the ovaries. Growth factors may wake dormant follicles; light sedation and transvaginal ultrasound guidance are common. Because it is autologous, risks are generally lower. Small reports describe improved AMH/FSH and resumption of menses.

Stem cell therapy introduces cells from bone marrow or adipose tissue to promote tissue repair and follicle development. Early clinical signals exist, yet evidence remains limited; standardization and safety follow-up are still in progress.

Autologous mitochondrial transfer adds your own mitochondria into the oocyte to boost cellular energy, aiming to enhance egg quality. This is an early clinical concept but draws attention because it targets the oocyte directly.

3) What studies show so far

Small, mostly uncontrolled studies report return of menstrual cycles, improved AMH/FSH, and pregnancies using one’s own eggs. Outcomes vary widely across protocols and patient selection, and longer follow-up is needed.

Highlights
  • Evidence base is early-stage; long-term safety not yet established

4) Practical cautions today

As of 2025, these procedures are not approved by the FDA or widely endorsed by major societies. Typical out-of-pocket costs are about USD 3,000–10,000 per cycle; insurance coverage is uncommon. PRP is autologous and relatively lower risk, while cell harvest and mitochondrial procedures carry procedural and unknown long-term risks.

Highlights
  • Confirm trial vs. private-pay status
  • Verify regulatory filings and oversight
  • Read the informed consent in full

5) A clinician at the frontier: Dr. Zaher Merhi

Founder and Medical Director of the Rejuvenating Fertility Center; trained and taught at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and NYU. Currently a professor at Maimonides Medical Center and Albert Einstein. Holds U.S. board certifications in OB/GYN, Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, and HCLD. Focus areas include advanced-age/low-AMH patients, ovarian regeneration using stem cells/exosomes, low-stimulation or natural-cycle IVF, and gentler adjuncts such as ozone or low-level laser therapies. He actively supports LGBTQ+ patients and those from diverse communities.

6) Before you try, align on goals

Define concrete goals—more oocytes, improved hormones, or pregnancy rates—then review supporting data, safety protocols, and the full cost including repeat dosing and complication care. Plan alternatives in advance (e.g., donor eggs) if results fall short.

Highlights
  • Set measurable objectives
  • Ask for data, not anecdotes
  • Understand safety and total cost
  • Keep a plan B

7) Bottom line — understanding turns hope into action

Ovarian rejuvenation is not yet established, but it creates a chance to try again. Understanding the science and limits is how hope becomes a deliberate choice. BetterFreeze translates frontier medicine into clear options you can discuss with your care team.

FAQ

Common follow-up questions about this topic.

Who is a candidate?

People with diminished ovarian reserve (low AMH/follicle count), those with POI, peri/post-menopause hoping to conceive with their own eggs, and IVF poor responders.

Which method is ‘best’?

No single best method exists yet. PRP, stem cells, and mitochondrial transfer are all experimental; suitability depends on goals and clinical context. Decide with your physician based on measurable endpoints.

Is it safe?

PRP is autologous and generally lower risk; cell harvest and mitochondrial procedures have procedural risks and unknown long-term effects. Review the latest consent and oversight details.

How much does it cost?

Commonly USD 3,000–10,000 per cycle out-of-pocket; insurance coverage is uncommon and travel costs apply for overseas care.

Source: Early clinical studies on PRP/stem cell approaches in ovarian function / Institutional materials from RFC describing experimental protocols

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