Red Light Therapy and Ovarian Aging
What Is Red Light Therapy (PBM), and Why Is It Important for Fertility?
Red light therapy, also called PBM, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support the body at a cellular level. It can:
Stimulate cell repair
Reduce inflammation
Boost energy production inside cells (think of it as charging your body’s batteries)
What makes it particularly exciting is its potential role in supporting fertility. For women over 35 who may notice changes in hormone levels or egg quality, laser PBM offers a natural and non-invasive way to enhance ovarian function.
Red Light Laser for Ovarian Rejuvenation
What Did This New Red Light and Fertility Study Reveal?
A 2024 study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology explored how PBM affects naturally aging ovaries in mice. After just two months of red light therapy, researchers found some impressive results.
Key Findings With Fertility Laser Treatments
The latest laser PBM research revealed some truly inspiring outcomes for aging ovaries:
AMH levels surged by around 50% in mice treated with laser PBM, a significant boost for anyone hoping to improve their ovarian reserve.
Estradiol (E2), a key fertility hormone, climbed by approximately 30%, helping to restore hormonal balance and support egg development.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which typically rises with age, dropped by about 40%, indicating a return to a ‘younger’ hormonal profile.
Most remarkably, the number of primordial follicles - the earliest stage of egg cells - was 2.5 times higher in treated mice compared to untreated ones.
Reduced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Laser therapy lowered markers of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the ovaries. These are two major contributors to ovarian aging.
Enhanced Mitochondrial Function
PBM boosted mitochondrial activity, which in turn increased the production of ATP, the energy source cells need to function well. This gave the ovaries more of the energy they need to operate optimally.
Better Blood Flow and Cell Survival
Red light therapy also promoted the formation of new blood vessels and reduced cell death. Both of these effects support a healthier ovarian environment.
What About Human Research?
These benefits are not just limited to animal studies. Human granulosa cells, which play a vital role in egg development, have shown promising responses to laser PBM treatment. Researchers observed:
Improved cell survival
Increased hormone secretion
Lower oxidative stress
Bottom Line?
Red light laser therapy is more than just a wellness trend. It is emerging as a valuable tool in the field of fertility support. Whether you are trying to conceive or want to support your ovarian health as you age, PBM offers a safe and science-based approach that may help. This study was run over 2 months - it’s not a ‘one and done’ therapy as we’re modulating inflammation, improving blood flow and how cells communicate. For optimal results I recommend 3 cycles of laser therapy during the follicular stage (who knows you may only need one!).
In our Round Rock Solasta clinic, we are committed to offering the best in non-invasive laser fertility support. If you're curious about how red light therapy might fit into your fertility journey, we’re here to help.
Can’t get to my clinic? Home devices with skin contact may help but we don’t have the evidence yet. For ovarian aging I would recommend using the Fringe Wand (it comes with NIR as standard for getting as close to the ovaries as possible) and the Novaalab pad over the abdomen to get the most energy into your reproductive organs. Learn more about my recommended devices for home use here.
Internal and external devices must have skin contact if laser isn’t available.
An Important Note
This study used laser PBM, not generic LED light panels or low-powered red light gadgets. If you see this research mentioned on a device manufacturer’s website, be cautious. Many are simply trying to sell you a device and may be misrepresenting the findings. Not all red light therapy is the same. The type of light, the wavelength, the dose, and the way it’s delivered all matter deeply when it comes to therapeutic benefit.
