CoQ10 For Fertility

The overall health of individuals undergoing fertility treatments is central to the overall success of the treatments. As well, adjustments in diet and lifestyle have also been observed to improve these odds. One of the ways nutrition can be improved is using supplements and the same can be said for improving reproductive health outcomes. In this article we  shall be discussing a nutritional supplement, CoQ10 and the role it plays in improving fertility outcomes for individuals.  

What is CoQ10?

CoQ10 is the retracted form of coenzyme Q10. CoQ10 is a multifunctional enzyme that occurs naturally in the cells of the body. Its highest concentrations are found in the mitochondria of cells and it is crucial for cell health and function. The synthesized form of the enzyme has been found to assist with boosting reproductive vitality, which in turn results in positive fertility outcomes. We shall highlight the specific functions of CoQ10 in the following section:

Functions of CoQ10

• Producing energy: Every cell in the body requires energy to function and this is facilitated by CoQ10. 
• Protecting the mitochondria: Mitochondria are the parts in the cell that store and release energy to the cells. In order to be efficient, they possess a specific structure. CoQ10 enables them to maintain their structure which helps them to function efficiently. When properly maintained, the mitochondria also live longer. 
• Antioxidant - Oxidative stress causes cells to be diminished in their capacity and function. As a result they also have shorter lifespans and become vulnerable to illnesses. The function of antioxidants is to help the body to rid itself of oxidative stress. CoQ10 also works as an antioxidant for cells.

Additional functions of CoQ10 include regulating blood pressure, enabling the body to manage waste and recycle, facilitating cell differentiation, and improving the antioxidant effects of both vitamin A and E. Our bodies change in the way they absorb nutrients the older we get. This causes our bodies to produce less energy and this is one reason why we become vulnerable to age-related diseases. The reason our bodies produce less energy as we age is because CoQ10 levels decline. As well, nerve-related diseases tend to thrive where CoQ10 levels are critically low. 

CoQ10 and Fertility

CoQ10 improves the quality of sperm and eggs that will eventually be used in fertility treatments. Let us look into how this happens below: 

CoQ10 for Egg Quality

CoQ10 has been used to improve the health of ovaries, enabling them to respond positively to ovarian stimulation. In fact clinical pregnancies have a success rate of 14 percent where CoQ10 has been included in the treatment. 

CoQ10 for Sperm Quality

For the most part, the research that is readily available regarding the impact of CoQ10 on sperm is limited. So far however, it would seem that the trajectory is pointing toward positive outcomes on sperm concentration and sperm motility. This means that once a person begins to take CoQ10, the quality of their sperm becomes improved. 

Dosage for Fertility

The dosage for fertility that is prescribed for CoQ10 lies between 100 mg and 600 mg. It  must be reiterated that this prescription can only be done by a  professional healthcare provider as they are qualified to help in managing any side effects that may arise. As well, they are able to know how to adjust the dosage if need be.

Side Effects of CoQ10

Most supplements do not typically have major side effects. However, with CoQ10, one may experience some significant side effects. The reason for this is that the enzyme readily occurs in each cell of the body. Increasing the levels in the body will result in the body trying to regulate itself back to its equilibrium and this will then cause the side effects.

 As well, if a person is already taking other supplements or medications, the side effects may be as a result of CoQ10 interacting with them. This means that if one is on supplements or medications, they must inform their healthcare provider beforehand. In this way the healthcare provider will put that into consideration as they determine the prescription to administer.Here are some side effects that one may experience when taking CoQ10. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any of the below symptoms: 

• Itchy rashes
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Upper abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Insomnia 

In Summary

CoQ10 is an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body. It ensures cell vitality, form and function. When it comes to fertility, it has been observed to improve the quality of eggs and sperm. As a result, people undergoing fertility treatments have seen improvements in pregnancy success rates. There is a lot that could be said about the value of CoQ10, so if you have any questions regarding fertility, reproductive health, or family building, do not hesitate to contact the fertility experts at IVF Fertility Center.