From the Guidelines
There is currently no reliable scientific evidence to support using low-level laser (light) therapy on testicles to increase testosterone levels. This practice is not recommended due to potential risks and lack of proven benefits. Instead, if you're concerned about testosterone levels, consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend lifestyle changes such as:
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Getting adequate sleep
- Eating a balanced diet In some cases, they might suggest testosterone replacement therapy if clinically indicated, which could involve gels, patches, or injections administered under medical supervision 1. The safest and most effective ways to support healthy testosterone levels are through overall health maintenance and medical guidance when necessary. Experimental treatments like applying low-level laser (light) therapy to the testicles could potentially cause harm and should be avoided without proper medical research and oversight. It's essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new therapies, especially those that lack scientific evidence and may pose risks to health 1.
From the Research
Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Testosterone Levels
- There is limited research directly addressing the effect of low-level laser (light) therapy on testosterone levels when applied to the testes.
- However, a study on photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) 2 suggests that low-level laser radiation can have positive effects on sperm cell characteristics, including motility, in vitro and in vivo.
- The study found that PBMT exerted a positive effect on sperm cell motility, with different wavelength ranges (blue, green, red, and near-infrared) having varying effects on sperm cells.
- While this study does not directly address the effect of low-level laser therapy on testosterone levels, it suggests that PBMT may have potential applications in improving sperm characteristics.
Alternative Methods for Increasing Testosterone Levels
- Exogenous testosterone replacement therapy is a common treatment for low testosterone levels, but it can have negative effects on fertility due to negative feedback mechanisms on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis 3, 4.
- Alternative pharmacologic therapies, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators, gonadotropins, and aromatase inhibitors, are being used to increase endogenous testosterone levels while preserving fertility and function of the HPG axis 3, 5.
- Gonadotropin therapy, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), can stimulate spermatogenesis and induce pregnancy in patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism 6.
Limitations and Future Research
- There is a need for further studies to assess the biochemical and molecular effects of PBMT on sperm cells and its potential application in improving sperm characteristics 2.
- More research is needed to fully understand the effects of low-level laser therapy on testosterone levels and its potential as a treatment for low testosterone levels.