English-speaking consultation • Belgium
Vaginal PRP: clear, evidence-aware care in English
Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is prepared from the patient’s own blood. Its use for vulvovaginal symptoms is being studied, but evidence remains limited. English-speaking women living in Brussels, the Flemish periphery and Flemish Brabant can discuss sensitive symptoms without a language barrier at the private practice in Beaumont. The consultation compares established treatments with the possible role of PRP, without promising a result.
Understand before deciding
What is PRP?
An autologous preparation
A small amount of blood is collected and centrifuged to isolate a plasma fraction containing a higher concentration of platelets. As it comes from the patient herself, it is described as autologous.
An approach under evaluation
Platelets release mediators involved in tissue repair. Their clinical value in intimate gynaecological care is still being researched, and preparation and injection protocols are not standardised.
Care without a language barrier
Intimate symptoms require precise, nuanced discussion. An English-language consultation makes it easier to explain symptoms, expectations, uncertainty and treatment preferences. The private practice is located in Beaumont.
Situations to discuss
When might a consultation be helpful?
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause
Vaginal dryness, irritation, burning, intimate discomfort or pain during intercourse may be associated with the hormonal changes of perimenopause and menopause.
Persistent vulvovaginal discomfort
When symptoms persist, the priority is to identify their cause and compare the available options, including local care and, where appropriate, hormonal treatment.
An individual treatment plan
Medical history, current medication, expectations and possible contraindications determine whether PRP can reasonably be considered or another option would be more appropriate.
Scientific transparency
What we know — and what remains uncertain
Preliminary studies and small patient series report possible improvement in some vulvovaginal symptoms. However, participant numbers are often small, techniques vary and follow-up is limited. Vaginal PRP should therefore not be presented as a standard treatment or as a guarantee of improvement.
Any decision should be based on balanced information, a gynaecological assessment and comparison with treatments supported by stronger evidence.
Care pathway
How does the assessment proceed?
Consultation
Review of symptoms, medical history, current treatment and expectations.
Assessment
Examination when appropriate and exclusion of infection or another cause.
Information
Discussion of expected benefits, uncertainty, risks, cost and alternatives.
Follow-up
If PRP is selected, the protocol and review are tailored to the individual.
Possible adverse effects
- pain or tenderness at the injection site;
- minor bleeding, bruising or temporary swelling;
- infection, although uncommon when aseptic technique is followed;
- no improvement or an insufficient response.
Situations requiring particular care
Pregnancy, active infection, platelet or clotting disorders, anticoagulant treatment, an unstable medical condition or a history of cancer require specific medical assessment. This list is not exhaustive.
Possible alternatives
Depending on the diagnosis: lubricants, vaginal moisturisers, pelvic-floor physiotherapy, local hormonal or non-hormonal treatment, and targeted care for infection, pain or a dermatological condition.
Frequently asked questions
Vaginal PRP: your questions
Is vaginal PRP a hormonal treatment?
No. PRP is prepared from the patient’s own blood. This does not mean that it is suitable in every situation or that it replaces hormonal treatment when that treatment is indicated.
Are the results guaranteed?
No. Individual responses vary and the scientific evidence is not yet sufficient to guarantee a benefit.
How many sessions are required?
There is no universally validated protocol for all patients. The number of sessions can only be discussed after a medical assessment.
Can PRP replace a gynaecological consultation?
No. Intimate symptoms can have several causes. Diagnosis and a discussion of the available options remain essential.
Private practice • Beaumont
Discuss intimate symptoms in English
Dr Isabelle Van Wuytswinkel welcomes English-speaking patients to her private practice in Beaumont. The consultation begins with listening, a medical assessment and a clear discussion of the options that may suit your individual situation.
General information for the public. This page does not replace an individual medical diagnosis or consultation.
Scientific information: systematic review of PRP for genitourinary syndrome of menopause and prospective pilot study.