Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does mitochondrial health matter for egg quality?
Mitochondria are the energy powerhouses of the egg cell. Each oocyte contains hundreds of thousands of mitochondria, which fuel crucial processes such as chromosome division, fertilisation, and early embryo development. Poor mitochondrial function can lead to reduced egg quality and lower chances of successful conception.
What causes poor egg quality at a cellular level?
Egg quality often declines due to age-related mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, reduced ATP production, and accumulation of DNA damage. Environmental factors such as diet, toxins, stress, and inflammation can also impair mitochondrial integrity and cellular metabolism in eggs.
Can you improve mitochondrial function in eggs naturally?
Yes. Lifestyle factors such as a nutrient-rich diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management have been shown to support mitochondrial biogenesis and antioxidant defences. Specific nutrients and fertility supplements may also enhance mitochondrial energy production and reduce oxidative damage.
How does age affect egg mitochondria?
With age, the number and function of mitochondria in oocytes decline. Mitochondrial DNA becomes more prone to damage, and ATP production decreases, which impacts fertilisation potential and embryo quality. Supporting mitochondrial health becomes increasingly important for women over 35.
What is ATP and why is it important for fertility?
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy molecule in cells. In fertility, it powers key reproductive processes such as egg maturation, spindle formation, fertilisation, and embryo cleavage. Eggs with higher ATP levels typically show better developmental potential.
What lifestyle factors damage egg mitochondria?
Exposure to environmental toxins (like plastics and pesticides), poor diet, chronic stress, smoking, excessive alcohol, and lack of sleep can increase oxidative stress and impair mitochondrial function, which may reduce egg quality and fertility outcomes.
How long does it take to improve egg quality through lifestyle changes?
Egg development occurs over a 90- to 120-day cycle, so it's ideal to begin supporting mitochondrial health at least three months before trying to conceive or undergoing fertility treatment. Consistency in diet, supplementation, and lifestyle can significantly impact outcomes during this window.
Are mitochondrial nutrients only useful for older women?
While mitochondrial decline is more common with age, younger women may also experience mitochondrial dysfunction due to stress, environmental exposure, or underlying health conditions. Supporting cellular energy systems can benefit fertility at any age. Learn more about age and fertility here.
How does CoQ10 support fertility?
CoQ10 is a key component in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, meaning it plays a central role in ATP production — the energy currency of cells, including eggs and sperm. By supporting mitochondrial energy and reducing oxidative damage, CoQ10 helps support both egg and sperm quality.
How long should I take CoQ10 before IVF?
The optimal timeframe varies, but many fertility specialists recommend a minimum of 90 days (three full egg-cycles) of targeted mitochondrial support before embryo transfer or IVF. We’ll cover the latest thinking and practical recommendations during the session. Learn more about CoQ10 dosage for IVF here
Is ubiquinol better than CoQ10 for fertility?
Ubiquinol is the reduced, active form of CoQ10 that may be more bioavailable — particularly for women over 35 or those with mitochondrial decline. We’ll explore the difference between ubiquinone vs ubiquinol, and when each form is appropriate.
Does CoQ10 help sperm count or motility?
Yes — while much fertility focus is on eggs, sperm also rely heavily on mitochondria (especially within the mitochondrial sheath around the sperm tail). Evidence shows CoQ10 can support sperm motility, mitochondrial energy production and reduce oxidative stress in male reproductive cells.
When should you start taking CoQ10 for egg quality?
Ideally as early as possible once you decide to optimise fertility, especially if you’re over 35 or facing mitochondrial decline. But even if you’re already in a fertility pathway, there’s value in starting now — we’ll explain how timing interacts with egg mitochondrial turnover and embryo viability.
Can diet improve mitochondrial health in eggs?
Absolutely. Nutrients like omega-3s, zinc, selenium, vitamin E, and antioxidant-rich foods support mitochondrial membranes, energy production and oxidative defence systems. We’ll cover key dietary strategies in the webinar — giving you practical, high-impact actions.
What are the best foods for mitochondrial support?
Foods rich in CoQ10 (such as oily fish, organ meats), along with nutrient-dense antioxidants (berries, nuts, colourful vegetables), good quality fats (olive oil, omega-3s), zinc/selenium (shellfish, seeds) and mitochondrial-supportive nutrients (such as vitamin E) form a solid base. We’ll discuss how to build your pre-conception diet for mitochondrial health.
How does age affect mitochondrial function in fertility?
As women age, mitochondrial density in oocytes declines, mitochondrial DNA damage accumulates and oxidative stress increases — all impairing egg quality and embryo potential. Understanding these mechanisms helps you take strategic action. We’ll illuminate the age-mitochondria-egg-quality connection in the session.
Is CoQ10 safe to take when trying to conceive?
Generally CoQ10 is well tolerated and widely used in fertility practice, but like any nutrient or supplement, it should be discussed with your fertility practitioner — especially if you’re on medications, have a medical condition or are already undergoing treatment. We’ll highlight key safety points in the webinar.
Does CoQ10 improve embryo quality or implantation?
Emerging research links improved mitochondrial function (via nutrients like CoQ10) to better embryo quality and implantation potential. While no single nutrient is a guarantee, supporting mitochondrial energy and reducing oxidative stress offers compelling benefits. We’ll explore this cutting-edge area during the webinar.
How long does it take for CoQ10 to work for fertility?
Because oocyte mitochondrial renewal and sperm mitochondrial optimisation take time, many experts recommend at least 90 days of consistent support. Timing, individual health status and lifestyle all influence response. We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect in the webinar.