A new study suggests that plasma infusions could ease uncomfortable menopause symptoms for breast cancer survivors who take hormone-blocking medications.
Up to 70% of women treated for breast cancer experience issues such as vaginal dryness, itching, burning, pain during sex, and recurrent urinary infections. These problems are often linked to aromatase inhibitors—drugs that suppress estrogen production to prevent cancer recurrence.
In a small pilot study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology, researchers found that injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) significantly improved these symptoms. PRP is a blood component rich in healing factors that has been used to promote tissue regeneration in other medical fields.
Lead researcher Dr. Anita Chen, a gynecologist at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, noted that about 20% of breast cancer survivors stop taking aromatase inhibitors early due to severe genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). “Discontinuing therapy too soon can worsen cancer outcomes,” Chen said. “We urgently need nonhormonal treatments for GSM.”
Because estrogen-based therapies are often avoided by breast cancer survivors, the research team explored PRP as an alternative. Twenty women participated in the study. Each had her blood drawn, processed to isolate the platelets, and re‑injected into vaginal tissue.
After six months, 95% of participants reported relief from GSM symptoms, including improvements in sexual comfort, urinary issues, and quality of life. “Even among those taking estrogen blockers, we observed significant symptom improvement,” said Dr. Emanuel Trabuco, a Mayo Clinic gynecologist and co-author of the study.
Chen added that all participants completed treatment and follow-up, showing a strong demand for options addressing this often underreported condition. None stopped cancer therapy or experienced recurrence during the study period.
The research team plans to move forward with a phase 2 clinical trial comparing PRP injections with a placebo to confirm the findings and further evaluate safety.
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