Male fertility is a common concern and an area where people are understandably looking for anything that might help. That makes it important to be clear about how early the research on light therapy is.
What the research looks at
- Laboratory studies: sperm samples exposed to red or near-infrared light in a dish have shown changes in motility in some studies
- Animal studies: a small number have looked at light applied to the testes
There are no controlled human trials showing that red or near-infrared light therapy improves sperm quality or the chance of conception.
A note on heat
Sperm production is sensitive to heat, which is why the testes sit outside the body. Saunas, hot baths and heat-producing devices on the groin can temporarily reduce sperm quality. If you are trying to conceive, avoid heating that area.
What it is not
Light therapy is not a fertility treatment, and our systems are not designed or tested for that purpose.
Where to start
If you have been trying to conceive for a year (or six months if your partner is over 35), both partners should see a doctor. A semen analysis is simple, and many causes of male infertility are treatable. Not smoking, limiting alcohol, a healthy weight and regular exercise are what the evidence supports.
Related reading
See our page on fertility research.
