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Types of Stem Cell Treatments Explained (2026 Guide)

About this guide: We are independent patient researchers, not medical doctors. We review peer-reviewed literature (PubMed), government trial registries and regulators’ guidance, plus documented patient reports, to help you navigate clinic options and spot predatory marketing. How we research.
Clinical & in-office procedures. This section covers cell-based procedures performed by clinicians. At-home wellness approaches (light, nutrition, lifestyle, activation patches) are covered separately in At-Home & Non-Invasive Support.

“Stem cell therapy” covers very different treatments — from approved bone marrow transplants to unproven injections of donor cell products. The type of cells, where they come from and how they are processed decide the legal status, the risks and the price. Start here before you compare clinics.

Treatment typeIn shortTypical price
IV Stem Cell TherapyIV stem cell therapy means giving cells, usually mesenchymal stromal cells, through a drip into a vein.No reliable data
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs)Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), more accurately called mesenchymal stromal cells, are support cells found in bone marrow, fat, umbilical cord and other tissues.$1,150–$12,000
Umbilical Cord Stem CellsUmbilical cord stem cells come from two different sources: cord blood, which contains blood-forming stem cells used in approved transplants, and cord tissue (including Wharton’s jelly), which contains mesenchymal stromal cells.$1,150–$12,000
Placental & Amniotic Stem Cell ProductsPlacental and amniotic products are made from birth tissues donated after a healthy delivery, such as the amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid.$1,150–$12,000
Exosome TherapyExosomes are tiny bubbles released by cells that carry proteins and genetic messages.No reliable data
PRP vs Stem CellsPRP (platelet-rich plasma) is a concentrate of your own blood platelets, while stem cell injections use cells from bone marrow, fat or donor tissue.$300–$12,000
Fat-Derived Stem Cells (SVF)Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is a mix of cells extracted from your own fat after mini-liposuction, often sold as ‘fat stem cells’.$1,150–$12,000
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is your own bone marrow, drawn from the hip and concentrated, then injected the same day, usually into a joint.$1,150–$12,000
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are adult cells, such as skin or blood cells, reprogrammed in the lab into an embryo-like state that can become almost any cell type.No reliable data

New to the terminology? See our stem cell glossary.

Before You Pay: The Stem Cell Clinic Checklist – free 9-page PDF
Free patient guide

Before You Pay: The Stem Cell Clinic Checklist

  • 20 questions every legitimate clinic should answer in writing
  • A red-flag scorecard to spot unregulated marketing
  • Realistic 2026 cost ranges: US, Mexico, Panama & Europe
  • How to find a registered clinical trial

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Last reviewed October 2026. For general information only — not medical advice. We do not endorse any clinic or product. Always consult a qualified, licensed healthcare professional. See our medical disclaimer and editorial policy.