What it is
Amniotic products come from tissue donated after childbirth, such as the amniotic membrane, amniotic fluid, or related tissues like the umbilical cord and Wharton's jelly. The "stem cell myth" grows from ads that describe injectable versions of these products as stem cell therapy.
In many of these products, the processing steps (such as freezing, drying, or filtering) leave no living stem cells in the final product. Calling them "stem cell treatments" can therefore be misleading, and it is fair to ask a provider exactly what a product contains.
Amniotic membrane used as a wound covering and on the surface of the eye is the established use. Injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, and exosome products marketed for joints, pain, hair, skin, or "regeneration" are generally not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Amniotic membrane has long been used by clinicians as a biological covering for certain wounds and for the surface of the eye. This is the area where its use is most established.
Joint and musculoskeletal care has traditionally centered on an evaluation, a conversation about goals, and options that a licensed clinician considers appropriate for the individual. These can include approaches such as movement-based care, medication, injections, or surgery, depending on the situation.
In recent years, some clinics have offered injectable amniotic or cord-derived products as part of a regenerative approach. Because these products are generally unapproved for such uses, regulators and many clinicians urge people to ask careful questions before deciding.
How the right doctor may help
The right doctor, such as one in orthopedics and sports medicine or a regenerative medicine clinic, may help you understand what is known and unknown about a product. A visit generally begins with your history, your symptoms, and an exam, and may include imaging, so the clinician can talk with you about your options.
A good provider may explain how a product is regulated, whether it is approved for the use being discussed, and what alternatives exist. Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation, and no outcome can be promised.
Helpful questions to ask: What is the FDA status of this product for this use? What is the tissue source, and does it contain living cells? What are the risks? What alternatives exist? What is the total cost, and does my insurance cover any of it? Checking with your insurer before treatment is wise.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain or a health worry can raise stress, and stress can change how we feel and move, so looking at the whole person is often helpful when exploring any option.
Body-based support, such as the practitioners at Somatic Experiences, may help some people feel more at ease in their bodies. Talk therapy through Therapists.plus may help with the worry and decision pressure that can come with health choices. Neither replaces a medical evaluation.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, and exosome products for joints, pain, hair, skin, or regeneration are generally not FDA-approved for those uses.
- Licensed professionals should guide your care, and results are never guaranteed. Always ask about risks, alternatives, and total cost, and check insurance before treatment.
- Be cautious of ads that promise to regrow tissue, avoid surgery, or call a product a stem cell treatment.
- For emergencies, call 911. In a crisis, call or text the 988 Lifeline.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the amniotic stem cell myth?
The amniotic stem cell myth is the idea that amniotic injections are stem cell treatments that regrow cartilage or tissue. In many products, processing leaves no living stem cells, and such uses are generally not FDA-approved. Ask a provider what a specific product actually contains.
Do amniotic injections contain living stem cells?
Often they do not. Many amniotic products are processed in ways that remove or inactivate living cells. A provider should be able to tell you the tissue source and what the product contains.
Are amniotic injections FDA-approved?
Injectable amniotic and umbilical cord products for joints, pain, hair, skin, or regeneration are generally not FDA-approved for those uses. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Ask your provider about the specific product's status.
What is amniotic tissue legitimately used for?
Amniotic membrane as a wound covering and on the eye surface is the established use. These are different from injectable products marketed for joints or cosmetic goals.
Can amniotic injections regrow cartilage?
No one can promise that. Claims that amniotic products regrow cartilage or tissue are not supported by FDA approval, and you should be cautious of such promises. A licensed clinician can talk with you about realistic options.
What should I ask a doctor before an amniotic treatment?
Ask about the product's FDA status, its tissue source, the risks, the alternatives, and the total cost. Also check with your insurance before treatment. A trustworthy provider should welcome these questions.
Educational resource. Amniotic Doctors shares general information and connects people with independent doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.