CoQ10 for Fertility

Supplements have long been known to improve a person’s well being and when a person is pregnant, it is important to make good choices in their nutrition. When it comes to trying to conceive, a specific supplement, coenzyme Q10 has improved the outcomes of those undergoing assisted reproduction treatments (ART). Let us discuss coenzyme Q10 and fertility a little bit further.

What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a naturally occurring enzyme that is found  in each one of the body’s cells. The highest concentration of CoQ10 is found in the mitochondria of cells. Mitochondria store and release energy for the cells in the body.

Functions of CoQ10

• Protection of mitochondria - CoQ10 helps the mitochondria to maintain their structure and function. In this way, mitochondria produce energy efficiently ensuring the survival of the cell.

• Energy - Apart from sustaining the mitochondria, CoQ10 helps in the process of generating the actual energy that cells need to function properly.

• Antioxidant - CoQ10 also is vital in protecting the body’s cells from what is known as oxidative stress - the stress and damage caused by free radicals.

CoQ10 is clearly crucial for cell survival, and as we age, it is the natural decline of CoQ10 levels that causes us to have lower energy levels, and become vulnerable to age-related illnesses. 

Of note as well is that, outside of age,  people who suffer from brain and nerve-related diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer’s, have been observed to have critically low levels of CoQ10 in their body.

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

CoQ10 has been a beneficial player in the improvement of sperm and eggs, both in quality and in quantity. Having plenty of quality sperm and eggs is central to assisted fertility treatments.

CoQ10 for Egg Quality

Different factors can diminish the quality of eggs produced in the ovaries, such as oxidative stress contributes to infertility in women. By including CoQ10 in the diet, the ovaries respond much better to hormonal ovarian stimulation, thus turning  infertility around and increasing the rate of clinical pregnancies by 14 percent.

CoQ10 for Sperm Quality

When it comes to the impact of CoQ10 on sperm, the enzyme also seems to have a similar impact on sperm quantity and quality. Currently, the available research is limited, but it has shown promising results, even for previously infertile men, for  sperm concentration and sperm motility, two crucial metrics used to determine men’s fertility.

Dosage for Fertility

For the purposes of improving fertility, professional healthcare practitioners usually recommend a daily dose of between 100mg and 600 mg of CoQ10.

Side Effects of CoQ10

In order to mitigate any unexpected side effects due to other medications or supplements you may already be taking, consult with your healthcare provider so that they can determine the dosage and frequency to prescribe for you to use CoQ10.

Due to the fact that CoQ10 is already naturally occurs in the body and in most of our diets, increasing the amount in the body may have some mild side effects such as: 

• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Headaches 
• Dizziness
• Insomnia 
• Fatigue
• Itchy rashes
• Irritability

If you experience one or more of these when using CoQ10, consult with your prescribing healthcare provider so that your dosage can be adjusted.

Bottom Line

CoQ10 has the potential to greatly improve the outcomes of those who desire a healthy pregnancy, when the supplement is paired with a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition choices. 

If you want to know more about CoQ10 or any other fertility treatments available, contact Reproductive Partners Medical Group for a wide range of reproductive health services at locations across the country. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can CoQ10 make me fertile?

The available research shows that CoQ10 could improve fertility. The best course of action however, is to consult with a professional healthcare provider on this.

Can I get pregnant without using CoQ10?

Yes, you can still become pregnant naturally, or through ART without CoQ10. Professional healthcare providers prescribe it as a supplement to complement fertility treatment plans, but it is not a mandatory requirement for the success of becoming pregnant. 

Can I use CoQ10 and not get pregnant?

Yes. It is possible to use CoQ10 and still not become pregnant. This is because there are many other factors that are at play when it comes to conception. Consulting with your doctor to determine what other factors could be preventing you from becoming pregnant.