There is currently no definitive evidence proving that red light therapy is fully safe or unsafe during pregnancy. While many sources indicate that the risk appears low, most medical professionals recommend avoiding red light therapy during pregnancy until more comprehensive research becomes available[1][2].
Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new therapy in pregnancy.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity in the skin. Common benefits include:
- Boosted collagen production for smoother skin
- Reduced inflammation and pain relief
- Improved healing after injuries or C-sections
- Potential support for mood and sleep[3][4]
Current Expert Views
Key Findings from Major Health Sources
- Lack of Comprehensive Research: Across reputable health sites, a consensus is clear—there aren’t enough large, controlled studies specifically on pregnant women to say red light therapy is completely safe[1][5][6].
- Possible Benefits: Some small studies and expert testimonials report that red light therapy may help with pregnancy-related muscle soreness, skin changes, and mood support, but these claims lack robust backing from pregnancy-specific research[3][4].
- General Advice: Most experts recommend avoiding use directly on the abdomen and suggest holding off entirely until after birth, or at least consulting your doctor before starting any sessions[1][6][7].
- Potential Minor Risks: Risks are low, but can include increased skin sensitivity, minor inflammation, burns with improper equipment, and rare allergic reactions. Eye protection should always be used[1][7].
Misconceptions
- Some believe all non-invasive therapies are automatically safe for pregnancy. This isn’t true—lack of evidence doesn’t guarantee safety[6]. Further, many resources fail to clearly state that risk is still unquantified, and that even therapies generally viewed as safe might carry unknown effects for the developing fetus[4].
What Do Studies Say?
| Study Type | Main Findings | Pregnancy-Specific? | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expert Reviews & Doctor Advice | Generally safe in theory, but not recommended due to lack of safety data | Yes | [1][4] |
| Small Clinical Trials (Light Therapy for Depression) | Minimal side effects, potential benefit for mood, not directly red light only | Yes | [8][9] |
| Animal & Cell Studies | Indicate safety, but do not fully represent human pregnancy | No | [10] |
| General Red Light Use | Non-invasive, promotes healing, risk of irritation with overuse | No | [5][7] |
Expert Recommendations
- Talk to your doctor first.
- Avoid direct exposure to the abdomen.
- Wait until after pregnancy, if possible, for cosmetic use.
- For pain, sleep issues, or mood support, consider safer, proven prenatal methods.
Related: Red Light Therapy for Cold Sores: Beginner’s Guide
Potential Benefits vs. Precautions
Possible Benefits
- Temporary relief from aches and pains
- Skin soothing (like helping with acne)
- Improved mood and energy levels
Related: Does Red Light Therapy Help With Weight Loss?
Precautions
- Unclear fetal impact, especially with use over the belly
- Possible worsening of some conditions (e.g. melasma)
- Overheating if used incorrectly
- Eye safety is essential; use protective goggles[1][7]
Related: Can Red Light Therapy Improve Scars? A Beginner’s Guide
When Might Red Light Therapy Be Considered?
- Only after consultation with a prenatal healthcare provider
- If other treatments are ineffective or contraindicated
- With professional supervision, avoiding direct use on the abdomen
- Preferably as a postpartum recovery option for skin, mood, and healing
Final Takeaway
While red light therapy may offer comfort and relief for some pregnancy complaints, there is not enough evidence to guarantee its safety in pregnancy. Most experts err on the side of caution and advise waiting until after birth or, at a minimum, refraining from use over the abdomen and consulting a doctor first[1][6][4].
Pregnancy brings many changes—safe, well-researched solutions are always the best first line of defense.
[1] https://www.thebump.com/a/red-light-therapy-while-pregnant
[2] https://kineon.io/blogs/news/is-red-light-therapy-safe-while-pregnant
[3] https://rescripted.com/posts/red-light-therapy-during-pregnancy-safe-or-not
[4] https://infraredi.com.au/blogs/red-light-therapy/red-light-therapy-pregnancy
[5] https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/red-light-therapy
[6] https://lumivisage.com/blog/red-light-therapy-pregnancy/
[7] https://catanddogma.com/blogs/uncategorized/is-red-light-therapy-safe-for-pregnant-and-nursing-women
[8] https://www.blockbluelight.com/blogs/news/can-i-use-red-light-therapy-while-pregnant
[9] https://womensmentalhealth.org/posts/light-therapy-a-good-alternative-to-medications-during-pregnancy/
[10] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9045993/