A new scientific journal published in Nutrients
confirms the importance of ubiquinol, the active form of coenzyme Q10, in male and female fertility. This compound could become a major nutritional support during critical periods of reproduction, marked by high energy and antioxidant needs.
A molecule at the heart of reproductive energy
Human reproduction is among the most energy-intensive physiological processes. Oocytes and spermatozoa are particularly rich in mitochondria, the cells’ real energy plants. Ubiquinol, a reduced and biologically active form of coenzyme Q10, plays a central role in the production of ATP and protection against oxidative stress.
However, this scientific review highlights that the endogenous synthesis of coenzyme Q10 begins to decline from the age of 20 and falls more significantly after the age of 35. A decrease likely to affect the quality of gametes, especially when needs increase, such as during a conception project or a pregnancy.
Male fertility: benefits now well documented
In humans, oxidative stress is now recognized as a major factor in infertility. According to the data analyzed, between 30 and 80% of infertile men have an excess of free radicals, capable of altering the mobility, concentration and integrity of sperm DNA.
Several clinical trials show that daily supplementation with ubiquinol (150 to 400 mg) significantly improves sperm quality. In a large-scale study carried out over six months, almost a quarter of couples achieved a pregnancy, suggesting a real clinical benefit of ubiquinol as complementary support in male infertility.
Female fertility, pregnancy and early life
In women, the results are just as encouraging, particularly in medically assisted procreation. Supplementation combining ubiquinol and omega-3 has been correlated with higher pregnancy rates in IVF and lower doses of hormones needed for ovarian stimulation. In patients with polycystic ovary syndrome resistant to standard treatments, ubiquinol also improves ovarian response.
The review also highlights the importance of coenzyme Q10 during pregnancy. Maternal levels are associated with birth weight, and supplementation of 200 mg per day starting in the second trimester has been linked to a reduced risk of pre-eclampsia in at-risk women. All these elements underline the key role of ubiquinol from the earliest stages of life.
A “conditionally essential” nutrient with high potential
The authors qualify ubiquinol as a conditionally essential nutrient: the body can synthesize it, but this production becomes insufficient during certain key periods – reproduction, pregnancy, aging or increased oxidative stress. Well tolerated, highly bioavailable and safe, even at high doses, ubiquinol thus stands out as a promising nutritional lever.
By providing a rigorous synthesis of the scientific literature, this publication in Nutrients reinforces the interest of a preventive and physiological approach to fertility. A serious avenue to support couples facing conception difficulties, at a time when parental age continues to increase.