CoQ10 For Fertility

Healthy lifestyle choices include good choices in nutrition and exercise and in pregnancy, this is also true. When considering nutrition, supplements have been known to improve vitality and coenzyme Q10, is one such nutrient. 

Having a wide range of benefits, coenzyme Q10 supplements have shown promising results when it comes to fertility, improving outcomes among patients who are undergoing assisted reproduction treatments.

What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10 is also known as CoQ10, and it occurs naturally in every cell of the body, with the highest concentrations being located in the mitochondria of cells. 

Functions of CoQ10

• Protection of mitochondria - Mitochondria are where energy is stored and released in the cells, like a battery. CoQ10 helps to maintain the structure and function of mitochondria, ensuring proper energy production, and overall survival of the cell.

• Energy - CoQ10 helps in the generation of the energy that cells require in order to function properly.

• Antioxidant - CoQ10 also is useful in the protection of cells from oxidative stress, which is the stress and damage that is caused by free radicals.

People who suffer from diseases such as Parkinsons and Alzheimer’s have been observed to have a deficiency in CoQ10 in the body. As people age, CoQ10 levels in their bodies decline naturally causing them to have lower energy levels and be susceptible to age-related illnesses.

Benefits of CoQ10

• CoQ10 helps cells to manage waste and recycle.
• CoQ10 is key in influencing crucial processes such as the differentiation, growth and overall survival of cells.
• By interacting with nutrients such as Vitamin E and A, CoQ10 enhances their antioxidant effects.
• CoQ10 has been shown to assist in the proper management of high blood pressure.

CoQ10 and Fertility

In fertility, CoQ10 has been beneficial in improving the quality and quantity of both sperm and eggs which is vital for people who are preparing for or undergoing assisted fertility treatments.

CoQ10 for Egg Quality

The quality of eggs produced in the ovaries is crucial for fertilization, and this can be affected by different factors. Oxidative stress for example has been known to contribute to infertility in women. 

The use of CoQ10 has shown promising results in treating infertility, improving the response to hormonal ovarian stimulation and increasing the clinical pregnancy rate by upto 14 percent, according to a 2020 study published by the National Institute of Health.

CoQ10 for Sperm Quality

The available research on the impact of CoQ10 on men’s reproductive health is sparse, but the use of CoQ10 does appear to have a positive impact on both the quality and quantity of sperm produced in men.

A meta-analysis of existing research on the use of CoQ10 showed promising results in both sperm concentration and sperm motility, even among men who were previously infertile, which is key in determining fertility in men.

Dosage for Fertility

Professional healthcare providers typically recommend between 100mg and 600 mg of CoQ10 per day, in order to see the benefits in fertility metrics.

Side Effects of CoQ10

Any possible side effects and unexpected interactions with other medications or supplements you may already be taking must be discussed with your healthcare provider before deciding the dosage and frequency for the use of CoQ10.

CoQ10 is considered safe to use in general, but because it occurs naturally in the body and in most people’s diets, there may be some mild side effects upon increasing the amount of CoQ10 in the body. 

Some common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Upper abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia and fatigue
• Rashes and itching
• Headaches and dizziness
• Irritability

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience one or more of these symptoms when you begin or if you adjust your dose of CoQ10.

Bottom Line

When it comes to fertility treatments, a variety of considerations have to be made, which may additionally require more time, effort, and money for success.

There is promising research that suggests CoQ10 could improve outcomes for those seeking a healthy pregnancy, when paired with healthy lifestyle and nutrition choices. 

To learn more about CoQ10 or other fertility treatment programs available, contact Nevada Center For Reproductive Medicine. We have a wide range of reproductive health services at locations across the country. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can CoQ10 make me fertile?

The limited research on this shows that CoQ10 could improve outcomes for fertility. Consult with a professional healthcare provider beforehand however, in order to determine the best course for you.

Can I get pregnant without using CoQ10?

Yes. Although CoQ10 is a supplement used to complement treatment plans for pregnancy, an individual can still become pregnant naturally, or through assisted reproductive technologies, without it. 

Can I use CoQ10 and not get pregnant?

Yes. CoQ10 is one of many factors that come into play when it comes to becoming pregnant. Consulting a doctor is beneficial in the discovery of other factors that may be preventing pregnancy.