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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.