CoQ10 And Fertility

Infertility is a deeply personal struggle that can make you feel like you're at war with your own body. While modern medical advancements have done wonders, they often come with a hefty price tag. So, naturally, many couples find themselves scouring the internet for alternative solutions. Enter fertility supplements—a booming industry filled with miracle promises, flashy labels, and, unfortunately, very little regulation.

One supplement, however, stands out from the crowd: coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Unlike the usual remedies, CoQ10 actually has some scientific backing. But does it really work? Let's break it down.

Key Takeaways

• CoQ10 is an antioxidant that has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of conditions ranging from Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s to many forms of cancer.
• The supplement has been shown to improve egg quality in women and both sperm quantity and motility in men.
• More research is currently underway to determine what role CoQ10 might play in future fertility treatments for both men and women.
  
  

What Is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10, also known as ubiquinone (or ubiquinol in its active form), is an antioxidant found in every cell of your body. It’s like the power generator of your cells, helping produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the fuel that keeps you functioning. CoQ10 is especially concentrated in high-energy organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver, which makes sense because they need all the power they can get.

Your body does produce CoQ10 on its own, but there’s a catch: as you age, those production levels plummet. Unfortunately, the amount our bodies can produce is limited (about 500-1500mg throughout the body), and as people get to their mid-20s, the CoQ10 levels begin to decline, and with it, the body’s ability to absorb it. That’s why supplementation can be a game-changer, especially when it comes to fertility.

CoQ10 for Egg Quality

In recent years, CoQ10 has been promoted for its ability to boost fertility in women by increasing egg quality. As women get older, the quality and quantity of their eggs decline, and mitochondrial function plays a big role in this process. Since CoQ10 is deeply involved in mitochondrial energy production, researchers believe it can help keep those eggs in prime condition for a longer period.

Moreover, female eggs (oocytes) have the highest number of mitochondrial cells, which means they have the potential to produce free radicles. Not only that, but egg maturation, fertilization, and embryo development require a lot of energy.

Studies have found that women with higher CoQ10 levels tend to have better embryo quality, higher fertilization rates, and more successful pregnancies, especially when undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). In short, CoQ10 might just be the extra boost your eggs need to thrive.

These processes can lead to oxidative stress in the whole body. CoQ10 supplements can reduce and reverse this oxidative stress process. 

CoQ10 and IVF

If you're going through IVF, CoQ10 supplementation could be your secret weapon. Some studies done on the effects of CoQ10 on women undergoing IVF showed that IVF recipients who had higher CoQ10 levels also had better embryos and increased pregnancy rates. That means better odds of successful fertilization, implantation, and ultimately, pregnancy.

If you would like to know how CoQ10 supplementation can help with IVF, PNWF offers various reproductive health services, including information on CoQ10 or other fertility treatment programs. 

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may also benefit from CoQ10. PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility, affecting up to 13% of women of reproductive age. CoQ10 has been shown to improve hormone regulation and glucose metabolism in PCOS patients, making it a promising supplement for those struggling to conceive.

CoQ10 for Sperm Quality

Infertility isn’t just a women’s issue—men are just as likely to be the root cause of fertility struggles. Sperm health is heavily impacted by oxidative stress, which can damage sperm cells, reduce motility, and lower overall sperm count. Since CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant, it helps protect sperm from oxidative damage while boosting motility and concentration.

Studies have shown that men who take CoQ10 supplements see significant improvements in sperm health. If you're dealing with male factor infertility, CoQ10 might be a simple yet effective way to tip the odds in your favor.

Dosage for Fertility

You can find CoQ10 naturally in food—meat, fish, nuts, and vegetables all contain small amounts. But if you’re looking to boost fertility, dietary sources alone won’t cut it. For fertility benefits, most experts recommend a daily dose of 100-600 mg of CoQ10.

The trick is choosing the right form. CoQ10 exists in two versions: ubiquinone (the oxidized form) and ubiquinol (the active form). Your body has to convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol for it to be useful, but this process becomes less efficient with age. If you’re over 35, ubiquinol may be the better choice since it’s more bioavailable and easier to absorb.

CoQ10 Side Effects

Though CoQ10 is generally considered safe to use, the safety of the supplement depends on its manufacturer. Similar to any other supplements, CoQ10 reaction in the body is subjective. Some people might experience mild side effects. Side effects can include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Upper abdominal pain
• Rashes and itching
• Mild insomnia
• Insomnia and fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Diarrhea
• Headaches and dizziness
• Irritability

Before taking this supplement for fertility purposes, it's important to consult with your fertility specialist. They will be able to advise if CoQ10 is for you and also the right dosage you should take. If you experience these symptoms after beginning or adjusting your dose of CoQ10, consult with a healthcare professional.

Bottom Line

The fertility supplement industry is packed with questionable products, but CoQ10 stands apart. Backed by science and shown to improve both egg and sperm quality, it’s a worthwhile option for couples struggling with infertility.

That being said, it’s not a magic bullet. If you’re considering CoQ10 for fertility, talk to a healthcare professional to determine the right dosage and form for your needs. And remember—good fertility health isn’t just about supplements. A balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and medical guidance all play a crucial role in increasing your chances of conception.

So, if you’re looking for a natural way to support your fertility journey, CoQ10 might just be worth a shot.