How Much CoQ10 Should I Take When Trying to Conceive?

CoQ10 is one of the most researched supplements for female fertility, especially when it comes to egg quality. The general recommended dose is 200mg to support general fertility, but recent studies suggest the optimum dose is up to 600mg, for individuals undergoing IVF or older individuals.

Let's break down the evidence behind CoQ10 and fertility, the recommended dosage, and when to speak to your practitioner about taking more, particularly if you're preparing for IVF.

What Is CoQ10 and Why Does It Matter for Fertility?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like compound found in every cell of your body. It plays a key role in energy production and protects cells from oxidative stress. These functions are particularly important for your eggs, which are energy-intensive and highly sensitive to ageing.

As we age, our natural levels of CoQ10 decline. This reduction is one reason egg quality also declines, especially after the age of 35. Research shows that CoQ10 may help support egg health by restoring mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative damage within the ovaries^[1].

How Much CoQ10 Is Recommended When Trying to Conceive?

At Zita West, we recommend starting with 200 mg per day of CoQ10 when trying to conceive. This is a clinically informed, well-tolerated dose suitable for women supporting egg quality and overall reproductive health.

Each serving of Zita West Kaneka Ubiquinol CoQ10 delivers 200 mg of bioavailable ubiquinol in two capsules, available in both 60 and 120 capsule sizes to suit your fertility plan.

However, in some IVF protocols, fertility specialists may recommend higher doses (up to 600 mg per day) particularly for women with poor ovarian reserve or are over 35. A 2018 trial found that 600 mg of CoQ10 daily over 60 days improved ovarian response and embryo quality in women undergoing IVF^[2].

We advise speaking to your fertility practitioner before taking more than 200 mg per day, especially during fertility treatment. Higher-dose protocols should be tailored to your individual medical needs and supervised by a qualified professional.

Why Choose Ubiquinol Over Ubiquinone?

There are two forms of CoQ10: ubiquinone (the standard form) and ubiquinol (the active form: more on the differences here). As we age, our ability to convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol declines, particularly after age 35. That’s why we use Kaneka Ubiquinol, the bioavailable form, which is one of the most researched in the world, in our CoQ10 formula. It is up to 70% more absorbable than some CoQ10 supplements and is ideal for women trying to conceive, especially those over 35 or undergoing IVF.

Should You Take CoQ10 Daily?

Yes. CoQ10 builds up in your system over time, so consistent daily use is key. It’s also fat-soluble, so it’s best taken with a meal that contains fat to aid absorption.

When Should You Start Taking It?

Ideally, begin supplementing with CoQ10 at least three months before trying to conceive or starting IVF. This aligns with the 90-day cycle of egg development, giving your body time to support mitochondrial and cellular health.

CoQ10 is a well-studied supplement that can support reproductive health, particularly egg quality and energy production. We recommend 200 mg of Zita West Kaneka Ubiquinol CoQ10 daily as part of your fertility plan. If you're considering IVF or have been advised to take more, always speak with your fertility practitioner first.

Our coq10 supplement for fertility is available in 60 and 120 capsule sizes to suit both everyday and higher-dose plans. For personalised guidance, you can also book a free 1:1 consultation with our in house nutrition team.

FAQs: CoQ10 and Fertility

How much CoQ10 should I take for fertility?

We recommend 200 mg per day. Higher doses (up to 600 mg) are sometimes used in IVF but should be taken under medical supervision.

When should I start taking CoQ10 before trying to conceive?

We suggest starting at least three months before TTC or beginning IVF to support the full 90-day egg development cycle.

Is ubiquinol better than ubiquinone for fertility?

Yes. Ubiquinol is the active, more absorbable form, especially helpful for women over 35 or those with compromised absorption.

Can CoQ10 improve egg quality?

Studies suggest CoQ10 may help improve mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress in eggs, especially in older women^[1].

Should I take CoQ10 with food?

Yes, it’s best absorbed with a meal containing fat.

References

1. Ben-Meir, A., Burstein, E., Borrego-Alvarez, A., et al. (2015). Coenzyme Q10 restores oocyte mitochondrial function and fertility during reproductive aging. PubMed.
2. Xu Y, Nisenblat V, Lu C, Li R, Qiao, J, Zhen, X, Wang S (2018). Pretreatment with coenzyme Q10 improves ovarian response and embryo quality in low-prognosis young women with decreased ovarian reserve: a randomized controlled trial. PubMed.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Always consult your fertility specialist or healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.