Is CoQ10 Safe in Pregnancy Or Only During Conception?

CoQ10 is widely used during the conception phase to support fertility and egg quality. But what about once you’re pregnant? Whilst there is some evidence that taking a CoQ10 supplement may be beneficial when it comes to reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia, there is insufficient research on its general safety for pregnancy. This guide explains the science behind CoQ10 in pregnancy and the advice from Zita West.

Why Women Take CoQ10 Before Trying to Conceive

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) plays two key roles: it helps generate cellular energy and shields cells from oxidative stress. Research shows CoQ10 supports egg health, especially in women over 35, and may enhance fertility success^[1].

What the Studies Say About CoQ10 During Pregnancy

A 2009 randomised controlled trial involving women at risk of pre‑eclampsia found that 200 mg of CoQ10 daily from week 20 until delivery significantly reduced the risk of pre‑eclampsia (14.4% vs 25.6% in the placebo group, p = 0.035)^[2]. While promising, this focused solely on pre‑eclampsia, not overall pregnancy safety.

Leading health authorities, including Mayo Clinic and NCCIH, highlight that there’s **not enough large-scale human data** to establish CoQ10’s safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding, advising to avoid routine use unless supervised by a healthcare provider^[3][4].

Should You Continue CoQ10 Once Pregnant?

• Yes, for conception: CoQ10 is supported for use before conception, particularly up to 200 mg per day to support egg quality.
• No, once pregnant: Due to limited evidence, current guidance is to **stop CoQ10** when pregnancy is confirmed, unless specifically advised otherwise by your doctor.

What If I’ve Already Been Taking CoQ10?

Many women take CoQ10 up until they see a positive pregnancy test. If that’s you, don’t worry, the supplement has a large safety margin. Once confirmed pregnant, switch to pregnancy-safe supplements like prenatal vitamins containing folate such as Zita West Vital Essence 1, vitamin D, and omega‑3.

Zita West Vital Essence 1 has been specifically formulated for the first trimester based on the nutritional needs of you and your developing baby including folate, magnesium and zinc.

The Bottom Line?

We recommend taking 200 mg of Kaneka Ubiquinol CoQ10 per day while trying to conceive. However, once pregnancy is confirmed, we advise stopping CoQ10 and transitioning to our carefully formulated prenatal support supplements.

FAQs: CoQ10 and Pregnancy

Can I take CoQ10 during pregnancy?

There isn’t enough clinical evidence to confirm safety during pregnancy. The general recommendation is to stop taking CoQ10 once you’re pregnant, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Is CoQ10 harmful during pregnancy?

There are no known harmful effects at common pre‑conception doses (200 mg/day). However, long‑term safety data during pregnancy is still limited.

What about CoQ10 and pre‑eclampsia?

A small study found 200 mg CoQ10 daily from week 20 reduced pre‑eclampsia risk, but this research focused on at-risk women. Further large trials are needed before it can be widely recommended^[2].

When should I stop taking CoQ10?

Once you receive a positive pregnancy test, stop taking CoQ10 unless your doctor advises otherwise. Switch to prenatal supplements that are widely accepted for pregnancy use.

References

1. Florou P, et al. (2020) Does CoQ10 supplementation improve fertility outcomes in women undergoing ART? A systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed.
2. Teran E, Hernandez I, Nieto B, et al. (2009). Coenzyme Q10 supplementation during pregnancy reduces the risk of pre‑eclampsia. PubMed.
3. Coenzyme Q10: Safety and side effects—pregnancy information. 2025. Mayo Clinic.
4. Coenzyme Q10 Safety Statement. (2019). National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or discontinuing any supplement during pregnancy.