CoQ10 And Fertility

Infertility can be challenging to treat, and though modern medical techniques are usually effective, they can be costly. This is why many couples tend to try other options. Because of this, fertility supplements have flooded the market, making it hard to know which products are actually genuine. Unfortunately, in many cases, these supplements have not been researched and approved by the appropriate governing bodies. 

This isn’t the case with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Several studies have been done to examine the use of coenzyme Q10 for fertility and its success rates. But does it work for fertility? 

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 CoQ10, naturally exists in the mitochondria of your cells. This enzyme is made in the body by combining an amino acid called tyrosine and vitamin B6 and mostly occurs in high concentrations in organs with high rates of metabolism, such as the kidneys, liver, and heart.

CoQ10 can also be found in food, and adding it to your diet can be a great way to increase the enzyme levels in your body. Foods you can take include:

• Nuts
• Soybeans
• Vegetable oils
• Pork, chicken, and other meats
• Fish (especially salmon and sardines)
• Dairy products
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Some cereals

How Does it Work?

Oxidative stress, or cell damage, is caused by free radicals in the body. This can interfere with regular cell functioning and contribute to many health conditions. CoQ10 plays a major role in your body by creating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), thereby protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Though it occurs naturally, CoQ10 production decreases with age. Low CoQ10 levels can also be caused by mitochondrial diseases, oxidative stress, or even genetic defects in how the body creates and uses CoQ10.

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. For this reason, it’s important to supplement using CoQ10. 

CoQ10 for Egg Quality

In recent years, CoQ10 has been promoted for its ability to boost fertility in women by increasing egg quality. As females age, egg quality and quantity decline. Some studies suggest that this decline could be due to a decrease in mitochondrial activity and oxidative stress. Since CoQ10 helps with oxidative stress, experts have deduced that CoQ10 supplementation can boost fertility. 

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. 

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

CoQ10 and IVF

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. Women with high levels of CoQ10 are also able to retrieve more eggs during an IVF cycle, meaning that more than one egg can be fertilized. This is enhanced when ovarian stimulation is done together with CoQ10 supplementation. 

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

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects approximately 6-13% of women of reproductive age. It is a common cause of infertility in women. According to studies, CoQ10 enzyme can help women suffering from the disease by positively improving hormone levels and glucose levels in PCOS patients.

CoQ10 for Sperm Quality

Assigned males at birth are affected by oxidative stress, which can result in reduced sperm motility, concentration, and count, as well as abnormal sperm morphology. All these can cause male infertility. Research has shown that CoQ10 supplements can positively impact the quality and quantity of sperm in men. 

Dosage for Fertility

CoQ10 can be found naturally in most people. It can also be found in different foods, particularly in meat, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. If the purpose of its use is fertility, one may need more of it to see positive results. It’s sold in the United States as a dietary supplement, and on average, one would need to take between 100 and 600 mg of CoQ10 daily.

CoQ10 vs. Ubiquinol for Fertility

CoQ10 is known to exist as ubiquinone (in its oxidized form) or as ubiquinol (in its reduced and active form). Converting inactive ubiquinone to active ubiquinol involves different enzymes and works best when we are young. However, this process becomes more difficult as we age.   

Though ubiquinol may be better, both ubiquinol and ubiquinone have been shown to support fertility. Therefore, when choosing fertility supplements, make sure you look for supplements that contain the most absorbable and bioavailable forms of each nutrient. Just as important, ensure the supplements combine multiple key nutrients.  

Does CoQ10 have 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

Fertility has become a big business, and the market is now full of products marketed as fertility supplements. In many cases, such supplements have not been researched and approved by the appropriate governing bodies. While the benefits of CoQ10 in infertility are promising, it is important to consult with your healthcare professional about any possible side effects or potential interactions with other medications before deciding dosage and frequency.