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As fertility research has advanced, there has been increasing attention on the link between coenzyme Q10 and fertility, particularly its role in supporting reproductive health. Among these supplements, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has emerged as a promising option for enhancing fertility in both men and women.
CoQ10 plays a key role in cellular energy production and antioxidant protection, both of which are essential for healthy egg and sperm development. Because fertility relies heavily on cellular energy and protection from oxidative stress, researchers have increasingly explored the link between Coenzyme Q10 and fertility outcomes. In this guide, we’ll explore coenzyme Q10 for fertility in the context of supporting egg quality, male fertility, IVF outcomes, and how to choose the best supplements.
Coenzyme Q10 benefits for female fertility
Coenzyme Q10, also known as ubiquinone or ubiquinol, is a naturally occurring compound found in every cell in the body. Its main role is supporting mitochondria, the structures responsible for producing cellular energy.
Beyond energy production, CoQ10’s powerful antioxidant properties mean it can help protect reproductive cells from damage (1).
Energy production for egg development:
CoQ10 plays a vital role in supplying energy for enzymatic reactions involved in egg maturation, follicle development, and embryo development. Eggs require large amounts of energy to divide and develop properly, and so mitochondrial function is critical for fertility
Antioxidant protection
CoQ10 also functions as a potent antioxidant within our cells. It helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can damage eggs and reduce reproductive potential.
By protecting reproductive cells, CoQ10 may help support overall fertility and reproductive health.
Coenzyme Q10 and egg quality
Egg quality is a key determinant of fertility and is one of the most important factors influencing fertility. Healthy eggs are more likely to fertilise successfully and develop into viable embryos.
Egg quality is determined by factors such as:
- Chromosomal integrity
- Mitochondrial function
- Cellular energy production
For more information on egg quality, diet, and supplements, check out our How to Improve Egg Quality & Ovarian Reserve – Meal Plan & Guide
How egg quality declines with age
As women age, the number and function of mitochondria within eggs decline. This reduces energy production and increases susceptibility to oxidative stress.
These changes can contribute to reduced egg quality, lower fertilisation rates, and increased risk of miscarriage.
Mitochondrial function in eggs
Egg cells contain more mitochondria than any other cell in the body. These mitochondria produce the energy required for fertilisation and early embryo development.
Because CoQ10 is a key component of mitochondrial energy production, supplementation may help support mitochondrial efficiency in developing eggs.
Evidence for CoQ10 and egg quality
Studies show that CoQ10 supplementation can improve egg quality, particularly in people over the age of 35 (2,3). For people undergoing IVF, CoQ10 may help:
- Improve ovarian response to stimulation
- Support embryo quality
- Increase clinical pregnancy rates
This research provides strong support for using coenzyme Q10 to improve fertility outcomes.
CoQ10 for IVF Preparation
Many fertility specialists recommend starting CoQ10 before IVF treatment to support egg development.
Because eggs develop over a period of around 90 days, supplements are usually taken for at least three months before commencing the IVF process.
Starting supplementation several months before treatment may help support healthier follicle development during this critical period, leading to more high-quality eggs retrieved at egg collection.
Coenzyme Q10 and ovarian reserve
While it is not possible to increase the number of eggs in the ovaries, it may be possible to improve the environment in which follicles develop.
Supporting mitochondrial health and reducing oxidative stress may help follicles grow and develop more optimally. This is why CoQ10 is often recommended for individuals with diminished ovarian reserve.
Research on CoQ10 and diminished ovarian reserve
A 2024 meta-analysis of six studies examined the impact of CoQ10 supplementation on IVF outcomes in women with diminished ovarian reserve (4).
The analysis found that CoQ10 supplementation was associated with:
- Increased clinical pregnancy rate
- A higher number of eggs retrieved at egg collection
- More optimal embryos
- Reduced cycle cancellation rates
- Reduced miscarriage rates
These findings suggest CoQ10 may help improve outcomes in individuals with reduced ovarian reserve.
Coenzyme Q10 and fertility over 40
As you can see, CoQ10 supports ovarian reserve and egg quality. As women age, the number and quality of our eggs and our CoQ10 levels naturally decrease. By the time a woman reaches her 40s, she may have fewer eggs, making conception more difficult. Additionally, the decline in egg quality leads to a higher risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy complications.
Over the last two decades, conception rates for women aged 40 years and older have more than doubled. Supplements such as a CoQ10 are very helpful for women in this age bracket as they can improve egg quality. This may subsequently improve fertility outcomes, particularly in those over the age of 35.
Coenzyme Q10 benefits for male fertility
CoQ10 is also one of the most studied antioxidants for male fertility (5,6). Sperm cells are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress because their membranes contain large amounts of polyunsaturated fats. Damage caused by oxidative stress can impair sperm function and can negatively impact sperm motility, concentration, morphology, and DNA integrity.
Reducing oxidative stress is therefore an important strategy for improving sperm health
Research on CoQ10 supplementation has shown improvements in several key sperm parameters, including:
- Sperm motility
- Sperm count
- Sperm concentration
- Sperm morphology
These improvements suggest that CoQ10 may support overall sperm quality, and for this reason, CoQ10 is often included in male fertility supplement protocols.
Coenzyme Q10 ubiquinol vs ubiquinone for fertility
There are two main forms of CoQ10 supplements:
- Ubiquinone
- Ubiquinol
Ubiquinone
Ubiquinone is the oxidised form of CoQ10. It is typically less expensive and widely available. Once consumed, ubiquinone is converted into ubiquinol within the body.
Ubiquinol
Ubiquinol is the active, reduced form of CoQ10. It is generally considered to be more easily absorbed and may be more effective for people with higher nutrient needs. Because of this improved absorption, ubiquinol is often recommended for fertility and IVF preparation.
What do studies use?
Interestingly, many CoQ10 studies do not specify which form of CoQ10 was used, so benefits have been seen with both forms.
However, many brands and practitioners recommend ubiquinol supplements due to their improved bioavailability.
What is the best time to take CoQ10 for fertility?
Because egg and sperm development takes time, it is recommended to start supplementing with Coenzyme Q10 for fertility at least three months before trying to conceive.
This timeline applies to both partners.
General recommendations
- Start 3 months before conception
- Start 3 months before IVF
- Take in the morning, as CoQ10 supports energy production
Taking CoQ10 with a meal containing fat may also improve absorption.
The best Coenzyme Q10 supplement for fertility
When choosing a CoQ10 supplement, quality and absorption are important.
What to look for
- Kaneka ubiquinol
Many high-quality supplements use Kaneka ubiquinol, a well-researched and highly bioavailable form of CoQ10. An example is Zita West Kaneka Ubiquinol
- Ubiquinol vs ubiquinone
Ubiquinol is generally better absorbed, although both forms can be effective. Which you choose may depend on where you are in your journey and what your budget is for your supplements. A more budget-friendly option in the form of ubiquinone is Vitabiotics Ultra CoQ10.
- Third-party testing
Choose supplements that are independently tested for quality and purity
- Absorption
Oil-based softgels often improve CoQ10 absorption
Coenzyme Q10 and fertility – FAQs
Research suggests that yes, CoQ10 may support egg quality by improving mitochondrial function and protecting eggs from oxidative stress.
Women over 35, individuals preparing for IVF, people with diminished ovarian reserve, men with low sperm motility or poor sperm parameters, couples trying to conceive naturally
CoQ10 plays a role in energy production within our cells, it helps eggs and sperm to develop. It is an antioxidant, so it also protects eggs and sperm, helping them to be of better quality.
Typical doses used in fertility studies range from 200–600 mg per day, although the ideal dosage may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is best to consult a specialist fertility dietitian or your healthcare professional.
Ubiquinol is the active and more easily absorbed form of CoQ10, which is why many practitioners recommend it for fertility support. But we also see success when taking ubiquinone ad many studies with positive results use this form.
Coenzyme Q10 is great for both. CoQ10 has been shown to improve several sperm parameters, including motility, count, and morphology. It can also support egg quality and the outcomes of IVF.
Research suggests CoQ10 may improve IVF outcomes by supporting egg quality, embryo development, and ovarian response to stimulation.
Yes, the safety of this supplement hasn’t been studied in pregnancy.
If you are preparing for pregnancy or fertility treatment, CoQ10 may be a helpful addition to your fertility support plan, particularly when started at least three months before conception or IVF treatment. As with any supplements, it is best to seek professional advice to ensure that what you are taking works for your personal situation.
Medical Disclaimer: This blog is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for personalised guidance, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Last Reviewed: April 2025
Author Bio:
Written by Claire Attwood ANutr – Registered Nutritionist
Reviewed by Ro Huntriss MSc RD, Consultant Dietitian and Founder of Fertility Dietitian UK.
Sources and References
Sood B, Patel P, Keenaghan M. Coenzyme Q10. [Updated 2024 Jan 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan
Conceptions in England and Wales 2018
- Fontaine F, Pénicaud R, Allouche S. Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Human Primary Coenzyme Q10 Deficiencies. Biomolecules. 2026 Feb 14;16(2):302. doi: 10.3390/biom16020302. PMID: 41750371; PMCID: PMC12938788.
- Xu Y, Nisenblat V, Lu C, Li R, Qiao J, Zhen X, Wang S. Pretreatment with coenzyme Q10 improves ovarian response and embryo quality in low-prognosis young women with decreased ovarian reserve: a randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2018 Mar 27;16(1):29. doi: 10.1186/s12958-018-0343-0. PMID: 29587861; PMCID: PMC5870379.
- Florou P, Anagnostis P, Theocharis P, Chourdakis M, Goulis DG. Does coenzyme Q10 supplementation improve fertility outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology procedures? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2020 Oct;37(10):2377-2387. doi: 10.1007/s10815-020-01906-3. Epub 2020 Aug 7. PMID: 32767206; PMCID: PMC7550497.
- Lin G, Li X, Jin Yie SL, Xu L. Clinical evidence of coenzyme Q10 pretreatment for women with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF/ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Med. 2024 Dec;56(1):2389469. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2389469. Epub 2024 Aug 12. PMID: 39129455; PMCID: PMC11321116.
- Buhling K, Schumacher A, Eulenburg C zu, Laakmann E. Influence of oral vitamin and mineral supplementation on male infertility: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online [Internet]. 2019 Aug 1 [cited 2022 Oct 24];39(2):269–79.
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