Beam Me Up, Baby! The Lowdown on Lasers, LEDs, and Fertility
Is a Laser More Effective Than LEDs for Improving Fertility?
As we continue our journey into understanding red light therapy (RLT) and its benefits for fertility, a common question pops up: Are lasers more effective than LEDs for deeper penetration into the body? This is something I see regularly, so let’s dispel that myth AND save you some $$$.
Let’s see what the science says (not the product sales people) especially considering those systemic effects we've been talking about.
Note:
If you’ve been warned off of using your light device during the 2WW you may not be aware of photopuncture - a type of laser acupuncture using light on specific health and wellness points instead of needles that you can safely use during that time. Studies such as these suggest lighting up acupressure points for seconds around the time of embryo transfer increases implantation rates.
Lasers vs. LEDs: The Basics
First, let's break down the difference between lasers and LEDs:
Lasers: These emit a highly focused, coherent beam of light. This means the light waves are synchronized and travel in the same direction, allowing for deeper penetration into tissues.
LEDs: These emit non-coherent light, which spreads out more and doesn't penetrate as deeply as lasers. However, LEDs can cover a larger area and are generally safer for at-home use.
Penetration Depth
Lasers: Due to their coherence and focus, lasers can penetrate deeper into the body, reaching tissues that are further below the surface - tumors, ablation etc. Some lasers such as Giga laser for fertility doesn’t touch the skin so you are already losing power as it reflects off the surface of your skin. Once it penetrates the skin it diffuses and scatters throughout the tissues. In NovaThor studies at the 800 - 850 nm range they estimate it reaches about 3 cm depth. So with 100 mW - given 1 mW at 1cm depth is .3%. The intensity of laser radiation reduced by 66% after being transmitted through a 0.784mm sample of human abdominal tissue. In this study most laser radiation was absorbed within the first 1mm of skin. NIR is also absorbed by sweat on the skin surface, water in the skin, hemoglobin in blood vessels, myoglobin in superficial muscle, and is scattered by adipose cells. Laser is a good option if you can access one and afford it - but for many it’s just out of reach. So let’s look at other solutions - LEDs
LEDs: While they don't penetrate as deeply as lasers, LEDs against the skin can still reach sufficient depths to stimulate cellular processes and provide therapeutic benefits demonstrated in a significant body of rigorous research. When it comes to photobiomodulation (PBM), there's an ongoing discussion about whether lasers or LEDs are more effective. Some experts argue that lasers might have an edge due to a property called "coherence," which means the light waves are in sync, potentially leading to more precise interactions with tissues. This is thought to create "laser speckles," tiny patterns that could stimulate mitochondria (the cell's powerhouses) more effectively than non-coherent light from LEDs. Another point in favor of lasers is their ability to penetrate deeper into tissues, especially with specific types like the "superpulsed" gallium-arsenide laser. This depth of penetration is often highlighted as a benefit, though it's worth noting that the actual energy delivered can vary depending on how the laser is used. That said, there's a growing body of research suggesting that coherence and deep penetration might not be as crucial as once thought. Studies have shown that LEDs can also deliver significant therapeutic effects, even without these specific laser properties. In fact, LEDs offer benefits like lower costs, ease of use, and the ability to cover larger areas, making them a promising alternative for many PBM applications.
While some still hold that lasers have unique advantages, the broader consensus is shifting towards the idea that both lasers and LEDs can be effective, depending on the situation. The focus is now on understanding how these different light sources work and finding the best ways to use them, offering hope for more accessible and versatile treatments in the future.
European Research and Japanese Research
Powermedic/Giga published their data from 8 clinics in Northern Europe with impressive results. One clinic in particular (Clinic 8) had about a 65% pregnancy rate. Amazing right!!! I interviewed Anne Marie the Physio who runs this Danish clinic recently about her results. (Keep in mind most women will see Anne Marie for 3-6 months for age-related fertility issues).
When evaluating research data provided by manufacturers or service providers, it is crucial to exercise caution. Manufacturer-funded studies can sometimes exhibit bias, as the company has a vested interest in positive outcomes. To ensure the reliability of such data, it's important to scrutinize the study's design, methodology, and funding sources. A robust study is characterized by rigorous peer review, a large and diverse sample size, randomized controlled trials, transparency in reporting results, and replication of findings by independent researchers. These elements help ensure that the conclusions drawn are credible, unbiased, and applicable to real-world scenarios. It’s obvious that Anne Marie is doing something right - so we need to dig a little deeper when it comes to confounders (other reasons why her rates are so high). Most women who are having IVF are also taking supplements, acupuncture etc - does that play a role? Anne Marie doesn’t just dive in with the laser she counsels women on nutrition, scar mobilisation (unseen internal scarring from infection or surgeries that cause adhesions). She also gives them specific physiotherapy stretches and exercises - as well as stress management advice - over 3 months. Did these confounders contribute to Anne Marie’s success with clients or is it the device? We just can’t tell until these studies are replicated with much bigger numbers and with at least one control arm.
In Dr. Oshiro’s work from the 2000s he applies his laser to the neck area (something I also recommend to activate the lymphatics), follows a protocol of neck and limb stretching and also uses the device on the abdomen for 10 minutes.
Interestingly - Giga / Powermedic report: “It is worth noting that younger women do not respond as well to this treatment, unless there are other complications not directly related to egg quality. More about this later. This corresponds well with Dr. Toshio Oshiro’s findings.”
The Role of Systemic Effects
Here’s where it gets interesting: While lasers can penetrate deeper, the systemic effects of RLT mean that even light applied to the skin's surface (as with LEDs) can still have widespread benefits. Remember those free mitochondria floating around in the bloodstream? They play a crucial role here. Skin contact makes your treatment more effective (read more here on the benefits of compressing the skin).
In this recent paper authors explored various aspects of direct and indirect effects of PBM.
You can see how the light causes healthy cells to ‘swarm’ the damage zone even when the light isn’t directly applied to the ovary/uterus.
Systemic Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Cellular Signaling: Both laser and LED light enhance mitochondrial function, leading to improved ATP production and energy metabolism, which benefits the entire body.
Hormesis: The mild stress induced by light therapy activates cellular protective mechanisms that have systemic effects.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: RLT can reduce inflammation both locally and throughout the body, which is vital for fertility health especially anyone with endo or PCOS - both are linked to metabolic disfunction.
Practical Considerations
Safety: LEDs are generally safer for home use as they don’t pose the same risks as high-powered lasers, which can potentially cause burns or eye damage if not used correctly.
Cost and Accessibility: LED devices are often more affordable and accessible for regular use at home compared to laser devices.
Coverage Area: LEDs can treat a larger area at once, making them efficient for broader applications, while lasers are more targeted.
Bottom Line
Both lasers and LEDs have their place in RLT, and each has its own strengths. For deeper tissue penetration, lasers might have an edge, but the systemic effects of LEDs mean they are highly effective as well. Especially when considering fertility, the broader, safer, and more accessible application of LEDs can be incredibly beneficial.
Your Action Plan
Choose Your Device Wisely: Consider your needs, safety, and budget when choosing between laser and LED devices. You’ll most likely use your device during pregnancy, labor and postpartum too.
Consistency is Key: Regular use of either type of device will maximize benefits.
Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and expert advice to ensure you’re getting the most out of your RLT sessions.
Whether you opt for a laser or LED device, the most important thing is that you’re taking proactive steps towards enhancing your fertility and overall well-being. Embrace the power of light therapy and let it support your journey to radiant health.
