Methods to Boost Pregnancy Rates: Explained Alongside Causes of Infertility

Why Does Infertility Occur?

Understanding the causes of infertility can help increase your chances of pregnancy. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), among couples experiencing infertility, 41% have female-specific causes, 24% have male-specific causes, and 24% involve factors in both partners. There are also various types of infertility causes in women alone. This article will introduce some of these infertility causes.

• Ovarian and Egg Aging

Many people know that pregnancy rates decline with age, and one key reason is the aging of the ovaries and eggs. The function of the ovaries, which produce female hormones, begins to decline around age 35. Additionally, the number of eggs decreases with age, and chromosomal abnormalities in eggs increase, leading to a decrease in egg quality. This aging process, particularly after age 35, contributes to the reduced likelihood of pregnancy.

• Sperm Aging

Not only eggs but also sperm can age over time. Aging can reduce sperm count, weaken sperm motility, and lead to abnormal sperm conditions. These declines in sperm quantity and quality increase noticeably after age 35. Damaged sperm DNA can also lower pregnancy rates.

Preventing Aging: Why Mitochondria are Crucial

The aging of eggs, ovaries, and sperm is closely linked to the functioning of mitochondria.

Many of you may recall the term “mitochondria” from biology classes. Mitochondria generate cellular energy from oxygen and nutrients, and they play an essential role in reproductive processes. For instance, mitochondrial energy is necessary for producing eggs and sperm, as well as for creating embryos (the earliest stages of life post-fertilization).

However, the energy production in mitochondria generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in excess, leading to oxidative stress, which can harm cells. Typically, ROS contribute positively to immune function, but when produced excessively, they create oxidative stress, damaging cells and impairing mitochondrial function.

When oxidative stress impairs mitochondrial function, the generation and motility of eggs, sperm, and embryos are hindered, lowering pregnancy rates.

To improve pregnancy rates, it’s essential to support mitochondrial energy production and reduce oxidative stress.

Enhancing Mitochondrial Function with Reduced Coenzyme Q10

In summary, supporting the energy production role of mitochondria and managing oxidative stress are both vital to enhancing pregnancy outcomes.

For many, making lifestyle changes to improve mitochondrial function can be challenging. However, reduced coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a supplement that provides support for both mitochondrial function and oxidative stress reduction.

In one overseas study involving more than 100 women undergoing IVF due to unexplained infertility, the group taking reduced CoQ10 for two months experienced a 16.7% higher pregnancy rate than the group not taking CoQ10. In another study, administering CoQ10 to older mice led to a notable increase in both egg and embryo numbers.

With evidence of improved pregnancy rates, reduced CoQ10 is conveniently available as a supplement. Kaneka, a major Japanese company, was the first to successfully develop this ingredient, making it accessible in Japan. If you’re seeking support during your conception journey, trying reduced CoQ10 may be worthwhile.