What Does CoQ10 Do?

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in every cell of your body. It plays a vital role in cellular energy production and has become especially well-known for its role in fertility, egg and sperm health, and mitochondrial function.

But what does CoQ10 actually do in the body, and why do so many fertility experts recommend supplementing with it? Let’s explore the research.

What Is CoQ10?

CoQ10 is a compound that helps generate energy in your cells. It lives inside your mitochondria, the powerhouses of your cells, where it assists in producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule that fuels everything your body does.

It also acts as a potent antioxidant, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage. This is particularly important for reproductive cells like eggs and sperm, which are highly sensitive to oxidative stress.

What Does the Research Say About CoQ10?

1. CoQ10 and Female Fertility

Egg cells require a tremendous amount of energy to mature and ovulate. As we age, CoQ10 levels naturally decline, which may impact mitochondrial function and egg quality.

In one meta analysis, supplementing with CoQ10 improved mitochondrial function and fertility markers in women with diminished ovarian reserve, suggesting it could play a role in enhancing egg quality in women over 35¹.

Another study found that CoQ10 may help delay oocyte ageing by supporting mitochondrial performance and reducing oxidative stress².

2. CoQ10 and IVF Outcomes

A 2018 study found that CoQ10 supplementation was associated with significantly higher clinical pregnancy rates and improved embryo quality in women undergoing IVF³.

This is especially relevant for women with low ovarian reserve or over the age of 35: groups often at risk of reduced IVF success.

3. CoQ10 and Male Fertility

CoQ10 also plays a role in sperm motility and morphology. A 2022 review of clinical trials found that CoQ10 supplementation significantly improved sperm concentration, movement, and structure⁴.

This makes CoQ10 a key nutrient for couples trying to conceive, especially if male factor fertility issues are suspected.

Ubiquinol vs Ubiquinone: Does It Matter?

There are two forms of CoQ10: ubiquinone (the oxidised form) and ubiquinol (the active antioxidant form your body uses directly).

As we age, our ability to convert ubiquinone to ubiquinol declines, so supplementing directly with ubiquinol may be more effective, especially for fertility purposes. We’ve covered this in more depth here: Understanding the Difference Between Ubiquinol and Ubiquinone: Key Insights for Fertility and Health.

Why Choose Zita West Kaneka Ubiquinol CoQ10?

Zita West Kaneka Ubiquinol CoQ10 delivers the active form of CoQ10: ubiquinol.

It’s the same form used in clinical research, proven to be more bioavailable than ubiquinone, and trusted by fertility clinics worldwide.

✔️ Contains 100mg of bioactive Kaneka Ubiquinol per capsule (two-capsule daily serving)

✔️ More easily absorbed by the body, especially over age 35

✔️ Expert-formulated for fertility and cellular energy

Learn more here.

Whether you're preparing for IVF, trying to conceive naturally, or simply looking to support your cellular energy, CoQ10 is a well-researched, evidence-backed nutrient with significant benefits.

And with age and oxidative stress both affecting fertility outcomes, choosing the right form of CoQ10 can make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CoQ10 and what does it do?

CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) is a compound your body produces naturally. It helps create energy in your cells and acts as an antioxidant, protecting them from damage. It’s especially important for cells that require a lot of energy, like egg and sperm cells.

Can CoQ10 improve fertility?

Yes, research shows that CoQ10 can support both male and female fertility. In women, it may improve egg quality and mitochondrial function—especially for those over 35 or going through IVF. In men, it can improve sperm motility, count, and overall quality.

Is CoQ10 good for IVF?

Studies have found that CoQ10 supplementation can improve outcomes for women undergoing IVF, including higher clinical pregnancy rates and better embryo quality. It’s especially beneficial for women with low ovarian reserve.

What’s the difference between ubiquinol and ubiquinone?

Ubiquinone is the oxidised form of CoQ10, while ubiquinol is the active, antioxidant form your body can use directly. As we age, our ability to convert ubiquinone to ubiquinol decreases. That’s why many experts recommend supplementing with ubiquinol. Read more about the differences here.

When should I start taking CoQ10 for fertility?

It’s best to start taking CoQ10 at least 3 months before trying to conceive or beginning IVF. This allows time for it to support egg and sperm development, which both occur over several weeks.

What is Kaneka Ubiquinol and why is it better?

Kaneka Ubiquinol is a premium, naturally fermented form of ubiquinol that is identical to the CoQ10 your body produces. It’s more bioavailable, meaning your body can absorb and use it more easily, especially helpful if you’re over 35 or have fertility concerns.

Is CoQ10 safe to take daily?

For most people, yes. CoQ10 is considered safe and well-tolerated. The recommended dose for fertility support is typically between 100–300mg per day, but always follow the guidance on your supplement label or consult a health professional.

References

1. Meta-analysis: CoQ10 improves IVF/ICSI outcomes in women with diminished ovarian reserve. PubMed.
2. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 2022. Systematic Understanding of Anti-Aging Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on Oocyte Through a Network Pharmacology Approach. View study.
3. BMC. Pretreatment with coenzyme Q10 improves ovarian response and embryo quality in low-prognosis young women with decreased ovarian reserve: a randomized controlled trial. View article.
4. Alahmar, A.T. (2019). The role of CoQ10 in male infertility: The impact of two doses of coenzyme Q10 on semen parameters and antioxidant status in men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. PubMed.