Can Red Light Therapy Help Improve My Fertility?
Low Level Laser Light Therapy (LLLT) for Fertility
Written by: Taylor J. Graber MD
Whole body or targeted treatments with Red Light or Near Infrared Light Therapy can have beneficial effects for male and female fertility.
Much of this article was researched thanks to an excellent article by Red Light Man.
Unfortunately, in both men and women, infertility (defined as the inability to become pregnant after 6-12 months of trying) and subfertility (reduced chances to become pregnant compared to similar-aged couples) are on the rise, especially in Europe, North America, and Asia. Roughly 10-15% of couples fall into these categories, as desiring to conceive but being able to.
Fertility rates and live birth rates are quickly declining in many regions of the world. Part of the reason for this decline may be due to socioeconomic factors – compared to the late 1800s, many more women are as professional and career-driven as their male significant others, and many are choosing to delay childbearing until later in life when their career success has been solidified. Unfortunately, the fertility rates also decline as childbearing is delayed until later in life. Environmental changes have occurred as well, as dietary staples in many parts of the world have become more processed and less healthy, which may be hormonally effecting those trying to conceive. These socioeconomic and environmental factors have had several unintended fertility consequences (sperm counts in the average male have decreased by 50% over the past 40 years). Compared to the last 1800s, men are now producing only half of the sperm as their ancestors did. In women, rates of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), and premature ovarian failure are all on the rise.
These effects can be seen on the epidemiological (population-based) level. In Japan, 1 in 6 women are infertile (17%), and the government has responded by increasing subsidies for having children and covering assisted reproductive therapy (ART) costs at a national level. In Europe, 10% of all live births come from women who conceived through ART. In Hungary, they have made it a national priority to increase the live birth rate to stop the hemorrhage of population decline, and they have eliminated the need to pay income tax for women who have >4 children.
Fertility challenges are becoming increasingly common, and many individuals and couples are looking for supportive, non-invasive therapies that may help improve reproductive health. While medical evaluation is always the first step, interest in red and near-infrared light therapy as a complementary option has grown. This updated guide explores what current research suggests, how the therapy works, and how it may support both female and male fertility as part of a broader wellness plan.
In Europe, Asia, and North America, infertility rates and the need for assisted reproductive therapy are on the rise.
What Is Red Light or Low Level Laser Light Therapy (LLLT)?
Red and near-infrared light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and target the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing cellular energy (ATP). When the mitochondria absorb this light, they may function more efficiently and support healthier cellular processes throughout the body.
Researchers are exploring how this improved mitochondrial performance may support reproductive tissues, hormone balance, inflammation reduction, and overall cellular health.
Why Fertility and Red Light Therapy Are Connected
Healthy fertility relies heavily on cellular energy production. Eggs, ovarian tissue, sperm cells, and the reproductive endocrine system all depend on mitochondria to function optimally. As individuals age, mitochondrial energy declines, which may contribute to decreased ovarian reserve, egg quality, sperm motility, and hormone regulation.
Red light therapy is being studied for its potential to support mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and promote improved cellular repair. These mechanisms make it a promising area of research for fertility support.
It is important to note that while results are encouraging, red light therapy is not a replacement for fertility treatment. It is considered an adjunctive, supportive therapy.
Fertility levels decline with advancing age. This may be related to an age related decline on the concentration or function of mitochondria and energy (ATP) production in the egg cells.
One important avenues for fertility health include the incorporation of supplements which have anti-oxidant properties (reduce free radical burden), and either directly or indirectly improve energy production at the level of the organ of interest (testes and ovaries). At ASAP IVs, we have research and implemented two different IVs for this purpose, of delivering near maximal benefits of anti-oxidant therapies by providing them in an intravenous form (see our IVs for the ASAP Fertility IV and the NAD+ IV). We prefer to combine these with several oral supplements as well, which can help the body retain several other helpful supplements which can be taken in a daily form.
A recent advance in fertility therapy includes low level laser light therapy, or LLLT (also called photobiomodulation). This has been explored in several studies to analyze the impact at improving fertility outcomes by performing targeted treatments on the area of interest (testes areas in males, lower abdominal area to cover the ovaries in females). This article will “shed some light” (see what we did there?) on the science behind these claims and provide a rationale in why we are including them as a therapeutic service with ASAP IVs.
What Is Red Light or Low Level Laser Light Therapy (LLLT)?
Red and near-infrared light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and target the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing cellular energy (ATP). When the mitochondria absorb this light, they may function more efficiently and support healthier cellular processes throughout the body.
Researchers are exploring how this improved mitochondrial performance may support reproductive tissues, hormone balance, inflammation reduction, and overall cellular health.
More recently, the application of LLLT for benefiting fertility has been more directly examined through publications from Japan and Denmark.
Why Fertility and Red Light Therapy Are Connected
Healthy fertility relies heavily on cellular energy production. Eggs, ovarian tissue, sperm cells, and the reproductive endocrine system all depend on mitochondria to function optimally. As individuals age, mitochondrial energy declines, which may contribute to decreased ovarian reserve, egg quality, sperm motility, and hormone regulation.
Red light therapy is being studied for its potential to support mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and promote improved cellular repair. These mechanisms make it a promising area of research for fertility support.
It is important to note that while results are encouraging, red light therapy is not a replacement for fertility treatment. It is considered an adjunctive, supportive therapy.
What is the Mechanism for Red Light or Infrared Light Therapy (LLLT)?
To better understand how red and infrared light therapy can potentially serve fertility benefits, it is important to acknowledge how they may work at a cellular level. As a reminder to 6th grade biology class, the mitochondria is an important organelle located in every cell of our bodies. It is the “powerhouse” of the cell and performs the critical functions for the maintenance of life. The purpose of all life is to produce adenine triphosphate, or ATP. ATP is the energy unit backbone which every cell in the body uses to function. Without it, and life stops. ATP is generated directly by the mitochondria through the electron transport chain (ETC). The ETC uses several precursors (CoQ10, NAD+, Cytochrome C Oxidase being some of the important ones) to utilize oxygen and product ATP. ATP production is extremely important for highly metabolically active cells such as sperm and egg cells. Most human cells have around ~2000 mitochondria, but human egg cells have as many as 600,000!
The benefits of red and infrared light therapy occur at this cellular level in the mitochondria. This “photobiomodulation” occurs when specific wavelengths of light (between 600nm and 850nm) are transmitted externally to the mitochondria leading to improved function and ATP production. During and after a LLLT treatment session, there is a cellular increase of nitric oxide (NO). At the tissue level, nitric oxide will promote vasodilation (increasing the luminal diameter of a blood vessel, which thereby increases blood flow). This can increase regional blood flow to an area of interest, such as the testes or the ovaries. At the cellular level red and infrared light therapy can dissociate NO from Cytochrome C Oxidase, which disinhibits the enzyme and allows it to better utilize oxygen, participate in the ETC, and create ATP. These are two of the potential mechanisms of action typically characterized of LLLT, but there many be others which are discovered with further research.
It is important to note that although these are the regional or localized effects of LLLT, there are systemic effects as well. The increased NO production can promote vasodilation of the coronary arteries, subtly improving coronary blood flow and perfusion of the myocardium as well. Application to the neck can result in systemic release of beneficial hormones, which can be harnessed for directed treatments.
Who May Benefit From Supportive Red Light Therapy
Individuals trying to conceive who want to support cellular health
Those seeking wellness options to complement medical fertility care
Anyone looking to promote better energy, circulation, and antioxidant balance
Individuals experiencing stress, nutrient depletion, or hormone-related fatigue
Red Light Therapy and Female Fertility
Several small human studies and case reports have explored how photobiomodulation may affect female fertility. While more large, controlled clinical trials are needed, early findings suggest potential benefits.
Possible Ways It May Support Female Fertility
Enhanced ovarian function. Some studies suggest that red and near-infrared light may help support ovarian mitochondria, which play a role in egg maturity and overall ovarian health.
Improved blood flow. Increased local circulation may help support the endometrium and ovarian function.
Reduction in oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a known disruptor of egg quality. Red light therapy may support better antioxidant balance.
Support for menstrual health. Some users report improvements in cycle regularity, though this remains an emerging area of study.
What Current Research Shows
A small Japanese case series reported improvements in follicle development and embryo quality when near-infrared light therapy was used alongside conventional fertility care. Another Scandinavian study observed increased pregnancy rates in women receiving photobiomodulation as part of fertility treatment. These findings are promising, but the sample sizes were small and larger studies are needed.
They noticed no adverse effects or discomfort for any patient in the study. In their study, they had 400+ patients with a diagnosis of infertility (who had tried dietary changes, exercise, hormonal treatments, IUI, IVF, ICSI) and an age range of 34-50. With their protocol they saw 260 pregnancies (260/400 or ~65%). With promising information like this (combined with emerging evidence of NAD+ therapy) it would appear that declining egg quality with age is not an entirely irreversible process.
Another protocol (used in the study by El Fasham et al.) utilized 635nm wavelength of light (red light ranges) applied to the abdomen in treatment intervals of 16 minutes, delivering 4.27J/cm2 of energy per treatment in Group A and divided into three equal sessions in Group B (26). Both study groups showed statistically significant improvements in number of endometrial cells and gene expression compared to controls. They postulated that LLLT to the lower abdomen can improve the proliferative and functional capacity of endometrial cells of the inner lining of the uterus (which can be helpful for embryo transfer success).
Mechanisms of these benefits have been explained through the improvement in age-related declines in egg function through improved mitochondrial function. Without adequate mitochondrial function, egg cells are not able to generate sufficient levels of ATP for their many processes, and they are rendered unable to grow, divide or implant (8). It is possible this may be a key explanation for most cases of unexplained infertility, and is also paralleled by fertility rate declines with advancing age. Red and near infrared light (<850nm) both improve mitochondrial health. Of cells in the body, egg cells may benefit more from the effects of red and infrared light therapy than any other.
Red Light Therapy and Male Fertility
Male fertility is also closely tied to mitochondrial performance. Sperm motility, DNA integrity, and morphology all depend on healthy energy production.
Possible Ways It May Support Male Fertility
Improved sperm motility. Some studies indicate that photobiomodulation may help sperm swim more effectively by supporting mitochondrial output.
Potential support for DNA integrity. Oxidative stress can damage sperm DNA. Red light therapy may promote improved cellular repair and balance.
Support for overall testicular health. Research continues to explore its role in circulation, inflammation, and tissue recovery.
As with female fertility, larger clinical trials are still needed.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Red and near-infrared light therapy is generally well tolerated for most individuals. However, the following should be considered:
Avoid use overactive malignancies.
Individuals with photosensitivity should consult their medical provider.
Those undergoing fertility treatments should coordinate care with their specialist.
Always consult a qualified medical provider before beginning any fertility-related therapy.
Male Fertility Benefits with LLLT
Male factor infertility is the sole cause of being unable to conceive in around ~20% of couples. When combined with the 30% of infertility causes which are a combination of male and female issues, around half of all infertility related problems can be improved by boosting male sperm production and performance. Male infertility is defined as oligospermia (sperm density <20 million/mL), asthenozoospermia (<50% showing progressive motility), or teratozoospermia (<15% normal morphology). There are many causes of male factor infertility, such as prior vasectomy, injury to or disruption of the vas deferens, autoantibodies against sperm, low testicular function, central hypogonadism, and many other environmental or genetic factors. Trauma, cancer or cancer treatment, or significant infections can all permanent damage to the testes and their ability to produce sperm. Environmental effects like cigarette smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can each have exceedingly negative effects on conception. The presence of smoking by the male or the female can decrease IVF success by 50% (17).
However, even though there are many causes of male infertility and environmental interactions which can damage sperm production, there are supplements which can be taken which can improve sperm production and function (carnitine, zinc). Red light therapy has also been recently studied as a novel treatment to improve male reproductive parameters. We will look at some of the studies below.
LLLT and Male Fertility Benefits
Sertoli cells are the important part of the testes which are essential for the formation of testicular tissue and the process of spermatogenesis. They directly facilitate the progression of sperm cells from germ cells to spermatozoa, and controlling the microenvironment of the seminiferous tubules. Put simply, they are the manufacturing plant of sperm in the testes. The proper function of Sertoli cells are integral for male fertility and proper sperm counts and concentration. These are also packed with mitochondria, and as we learned through the above discussion of eggs, mitochondrial function is incredibly important.
Red light therapy has been studied in male for its ability to stimulate the mitochondria of Sertoli cells. These light therapy treatments involve the application of red and infrared light to the lower abdomen or testes to improve these parameters. Most studies have investigated red light at 670nm as the treatment of choice for the testes. They are a more superficial organ, and the light doesn’t need to penetrate the tissue as deeply as it does for the ovaries for beneficial effects to be seen.
The studies have looked at the ability for red light therapy to improve the amount, concentration, and motility of sperm cells before and after treatments. The results have been pretty dramatic, often with as little as a single treatment.
Possible Ways It May Support Male Fertility
Improved sperm motility: Some studies indicate that photobiomodulation may help sperm swim more effectively by supporting mitochondrial output.
Potential support for DNA integrity: Oxidative stress can damage sperm DNA. Red light therapy may promote improved cellular repair and balance.
Support for overall testicular health: Research continues to explore its role in circulation, inflammation, and tissue recovery.
Grinsted and Hillegas looked at the effects of red light therapy in men (7). Their treatment protocol is as follows:
Single treatment session with near infrared laser light at 808nm
Lights are placed 1-2 cm above the testicle.
Each testicle received two 10 second treatments, for a total dose of 10 Joules per testicle.
Although their results are not from a robust study, they reported that they have seen sperm concentrations increase from 2 million/mL to 40 million/mL with a single treatment. This kind of robust result seems difficult to believe, but even if partially true, with a lack of harmful effects it would seem as though this therapy should be performed on every male before sperm collections for IVF.
Another study by Frangez et al. (11) looked at the effects of different wavelengths at how they impact sperm motility. In their study, they treated sperm directly after the sample was collected, as opposed to treating the sperm while they are in the testes. They treated donated sperm with several different wavelengths:
850nm
625nm, 660nm, and 850nm
470nm
625nm, 660nm, and 470nm
Following treatment, they looked at the percentages of motile sperm and sperm kinetics. They saw statistical improvements from all treated categories. LED significantly increased the proportion of rapidly progressive sperm (mean differences were as follows: 2.83 (1.39-4.28), 3.33 (1.61-5.05), 4.50 (3.00-5.99) and 3.83 (2.31-5.36) for groups 1-4, respectively) and significantly decreased the ratio of immotile sperm (the mean differences and 95% CI were as follows: 3.50 (1.30-5.70), 4.33 (2.15-6.51), 5.83 (3.81-7.86) and 5.50 (2.98-8.02) for groups 1-4, respectively). They found that photobiomodulation therapy using LED improved sperm motility regardless of wavelength chosen.
Increasing the amount and concentration of sperm delivered in an ejaculate, especially ones that have increased motility and improved movement, would directly increase the chances of conception, either naturally or through IVF.
Who May Benefit From Supportive Red Light Therapy
Individuals trying to conceive who want to support cellular health
Those seeking wellness options to complement medical fertility care
Anyone looking to promote better energy, circulation, and antioxidant balance
Individuals experiencing stress, nutrient depletion, or hormone-related fatigue
Key Takeaways
Red light therapy may support mitochondrial health, circulation, oxidative balance, and cellular repair.
Early research shows promising results for both male and female fertility, but more large clinical trials are needed.
It is not a replacement for fertility treatment, but it can be a supportive wellness therapy.
Combining red light therapy with nutrient-rich IV infusions may help optimize overall cellular health.
Final Thoughts
Fertility is influenced by many factors including age, lifestyle, hormone balance, and cellular energy production. Red light therapy is an exciting area of research with early evidence suggesting it may support reproductive wellness in both men and women.
If you are exploring integrative ways to support fertility, our team can help you build a personalized wellness plan that includes red light therapy, nutritional IVs, and overall health optimization.
References
Personal Overview of the Application of LLLT in Severely Infertile Japanese Females. Ohshiro. 2012
Treatment Of Female Infertility Incorporating Low-Reactive Laser Therapy (LLLT): An Initial Report. Iwahata et al. 2005
The Proximal Priority Theory: An Updated Technique in Low Level Laser Therapy with an 830 nm GaAlAs Laser. Ohshiro. 2012
Analysis of the curative effect of GaAlAs diode laser therapy in female infertility. Taniguchi et al. 2010
Proximal Priority Treatment Using The Neck Irradiator For Adjunctive Treatment of Female Infertility. Fujii et al. 2007
A case where low reactive level laser therapy was thought to be extremely effective in the treatment of female infertility. Fujii et al. 2004
PhotoBioModulation for Infertility. EC Gynaecology 8.9. 2019
Why do older women have poor implantation rates? A possible role of the mitochondria. Bartmann et al. 2004
Sperm motility enhancement with low level laser therapy. Harrison et al. 2008
Effect of 830-nm diode laser irradiation on human sperm motility. Yazdi et al. 2014
Photobiomodulation with light-emitting diodes improves sperm motility in men with asthenozoospermia. Frangez et al. 2015
Photobiomodulation with 810 nm Wavelengths Improves Human Sperms’ Motility and Viability In Vitro. Safian et al. 2020
Effectiveness of low level laser therapy for treating male infertility. Moskvin et al. 2018
Red light improves spermatozoa motility and does not induce oxidative DNA damage. Preece et al. 2017
Photobiomodulation therapy for male infertility. Zupin et al. 2020
The Possible Application of low Reactive-Level Laser Therapy (Lllt) in the Treatment of Male Infertility. Hasan et al. 1989.
The Effects of Cigarette Smoking on Male Fertility. Kovac et al. 2016
Effect of 655-nm diode laser on dog sperm motility. Corral-Baqués et al. 2005
The effect of low-level laser irradiation on dog spermatozoa motility is dependent on laser output power. Corral-Baqués et al. 2009
The Effects of Red Light on Mammalian Sperm Rely upon the Color of the Straw and the Medium Used. Catalán et al. 2021
Red-Light Irradiation of Horse Spermatozoa Increases Mitochondrial Activity and Motility through Changes in the Motile Sperm Subpopulation Structure. Catalán et al. 2020
Photobiomodulation improved stereological parameters and sperm analysis factors in streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes mellitus. Dadras et al.2018
Low level laser therapy (LLLT) modulates ovarian function in mature female mice. Oubiña et al. 2019
Red LED Light Acts on the Mitochondrial Electron Chain of Donkey Sperm and Its Effects Depend on the Time of Exposure to Light. Catalán et al. 2020
Amelioration of heat stress-induced damage to testes and sperm quality. Shahat et al. 2020
El Faham, D. A., Elnoury, M., Morsy, M. I., El Shaer, M. A., Nour Eldin, G. M., & Azmy, O. M. (2018). Has the time come to include low-level laser photobiomodulation as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of impaired endometrial receptivity?. Lasers in medical science, 33(5), 1105–1114. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-018-2476-y