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Mitochondrial function affects egg quality and Ubiquinol CoQ10 is one of the most researched supplements for fertility. Learn about the science, practical strategies, and how to build a comprehensive approach to supporting your eggs before conception or IVF.
When it comes to egg quality, mitochondria are the unsung heroes of fertility. These tiny structures within your cells are often called the “powerhouses” because they generate the energy (ATP) required for nearly all cellular processes. In fact, mitochondrial activity is responsible for up to 95% of cellular energy production.1 This energy demand is especially critical during egg maturation and early embryo development.
Research consistently shows that mitochondrial function is strongly associated with oocyte (egg) quality.2 As eggs mature, they require substantial energy to complete meiosis, maintain chromosome integrity, and support fertilisation and early embryogenesis. When mitochondrial function is impaired, these processes may be compromised, increasing the risk of poor egg quality or embryo development issues.3
One of the key challenges is that mitochondrial efficiency naturally declines with age. At the same time, oxidative stress—an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants—can damage mitochondrial membranes and DNA. This is where Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), particularly in its active form, ubiquinol, becomes highly relevant.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble compound present in every cell of the body, where it plays two essential roles:
CoQ10 exists in two forms: ubiquinone (oxidised) and ubiquinol (reduced, active). Ubiquinol is the form directly utilised by mitochondria and does not require conversion within the body.4 Importantly, the body’s ability to convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol declines with age, which may reduce antioxidant capacity in reproductive tissues over time.5
Zita West Kaneka Ubiquinol CoQ10 provides the stabilised ubiquinol form manufactured by Kaneka, the original developer of ubiquinol. Comparative studies show that ubiquinol is significantly more bioavailable than conventional ubiquinone, with one controlled trial demonstrating approximately 70% higher absorption in healthy adults.6
Research into CoQ10 and fertility highlights several mechanisms through which ubiquinol may support oocyte health:
Ubiquinol is lipid-soluble and localises within mitochondrial membranes, where it helps neutralise ROS at their primary site of production.7 By supporting mitochondrial ATP generation and reducing oxidative damage, ubiquinol may help protect oocytes from age- and stress-related decline.8
Clinical studies suggest CoQ10 supplementation may improve ovarian response and embryo quality in women with reduced ovarian reserve. A randomised study by Xu et al. found that pretreatment with CoQ10 improved both ovarian response and embryo quality in women undergoing assisted reproduction.9
More recent meta-analyses and real-world data in IVF settings have reported:
Preclinical and laboratory research indicates that ubiquinol may help delay oocyte ageing by preserving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress within developing eggs.10 These findings support the rationale for using the reduced (ubiquinol) form when targeting age-related mitochondrial decline.
While Kaneka Ubiquinol CoQ10 plays a central role in mitochondrial support, egg quality benefits most from a comprehensive, nutrient-dense approach.
Mitochondria rely on multiple nutrients to function optimally, including B vitamins as enzymatic cofactors, omega-3 fatty acids for membrane integrity, antioxidants for protection, and minerals for energy metabolism. Supporting these pathways together creates an environment conducive to healthy egg maturation.
Vitafem – A comprehensive fertility multivitamin delivering methylfolate, vitamin D, B vitamins, and essential minerals that work alongside CoQ10 in mitochondrial energy pathways.
Vital DHA – Provides omega-3 fatty acids critical for mitochondrial and cellular membrane health, as well as anti-inflammatory support.
Vitafem Boost – Antioxidant support with vitamins A, C, and E to help protect eggs from oxidative stress.
Inositol & Folate – Supports insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance, particularly relevant for women with PCOS.
Mitochondrial health is fundamental to egg quality, and ubiquinol CoQ10 is one of the most researched nutrients supporting mitochondrial energy and antioxidant protection. Evidence suggests that the bioavailable ubiquinol form, particularly Kaneka Ubiquinol, may be especially relevant as women age or when oxidative stress is elevated.
While no supplement can guarantee conception, supporting mitochondrial function represents a science-led approach to optimising reproductive potential as part of a broader fertility strategy.
Eggs take approximately 3–4 months to mature before ovulation. Most clinical studies investigating CoQ10 and fertility have used supplementation for at least 2–3 months prior to IVF or conception attempts. Research suggests that consistent use during this window allows time for mitochondrial function and antioxidant status within developing eggs to be supported. For this reason, we typically recommend starting ubiquinol CoQ10 at least three months before egg collection or actively trying to conceive.
Age-related changes in egg quality are closely linked to declining mitochondrial efficiency and increased oxidative stress. Research indicates that CoQ10 supplementation may help support mitochondrial energy production and antioxidant protection in reproductive cells, even in women over 40. While individual responses vary and supplementation cannot reverse biological ageing, studies in IVF settings have reported improvements in ovarian response and embryo quality in older age groups when CoQ10 is used as part of a broader fertility support strategy.
Ubiquinol is the reduced, active form of CoQ10 that is directly used by mitochondria and does not require conversion in the body. Evidence shows that the body’s ability to convert standard CoQ10 (ubiquinone) into ubiquinol declines with age, which may reduce its effectiveness over time. Comparative studies also demonstrate that ubiquinol is significantly more bioavailable than ubiquinone, meaning higher circulating levels are achieved at equivalent doses. This is why many fertility specialists prefer ubiquinol, particularly for women over 35.
Yes. Research suggests CoQ10 may be beneficial for women with PCOS due to its role in supporting mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress. Oxidative imbalance and impaired energy metabolism are commonly observed in PCOS, and CoQ10 may help support egg quality in this context. Combining CoQ10 with myo-inositol and folate is often recommended to support insulin sensitivity, hormonal balance, and ovarian function.
Ubiquinol CoQ10 is generally very well tolerated. Clinical studies, including those using higher doses, report no significant adverse events. Some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort when first starting supplementation, which typically resolves quickly. As with all supplements, it’s important to inform your fertility specialist or healthcare provider about anything you are taking.
Most research on CoQ10 focuses on preconception and IVF preparation rather than pregnancy. For this reason, current guidance typically suggests discontinuing CoQ10 once pregnancy is confirmed, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional. Always follow personalised medical advice during pregnancy.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
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