From the Research
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for the scalp is not recommended during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data and potential risks associated with the procedure. The most recent and highest quality study on the topic of PRP therapy is from 2021, which provides an overview of the evidence-based indications of platelet-rich plasma therapy 1. However, this study does not specifically address the safety of PRP therapy during pregnancy.
Key Considerations
- PRP therapy involves drawing blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, and injecting this concentration back into the scalp to potentially stimulate hair growth.
- While PRP uses the patient's own blood components, the procedure carries potential risks including infection at injection sites, nerve damage, pain, and tissue damage.
- The process often includes local anesthetics or other medications that may not be pregnancy-safe.
- The body undergoes significant hormonal changes during pregnancy that already affect hair growth cycles, potentially complicating treatment outcomes.
Alternative Approaches
- If experiencing hair loss during pregnancy, this is often temporary due to hormonal fluctuations, and many women see natural hair regrowth within 6-12 months postpartum without intervention.
- Other treatments for hair loss, such as low-level laser therapy and minoxidil, may be considered, but their safety and efficacy during pregnancy should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis 2.
- It's best to postpone PRP therapy until after pregnancy and breastfeeding are complete, when the safety and efficacy of the procedure can be better ensured.
Evidence Summary
The available evidence on PRP therapy for hair restoration is promising, but it does not specifically address the safety of the procedure during pregnancy 3, 4. Therefore, a cautious approach is recommended, and PRP therapy should be avoided during pregnancy until more safety data becomes available.