Effective Methods to Boost Pregnancy Rates: A Guide
Nov 12, 2024
Is There Really a Way to Improve Pregnancy Rates?
Imagine if something you could take would help increase your chances of conception and improve ovarian function—sounds ideal, doesn’t it?
An international study revealed promising results in this area. Researchers found that over two months, when more than 100 women undergoing IVF treatment with unknown causes of infertility took capsules containing 100 mg of reduced coenzyme Q10, their pregnancy rates increased by 16.7% compared to those not taking the supplement. Additionally, the women required lower doses of hormones for ovarian stimulation, necessary for IVF procedures.
In another experiment, aged mice given coenzyme Q10 showed a significant increase in egg and embryo production. While results can vary, these findings indicate that reduced coenzyme Q10 may have a positive impact on pregnancy rates.
Mitochondria: The Key to Addressing Infertility
The reason reduced coenzyme Q10 appears to positively impact pregnancy rates lies in its support for mitochondrial function, which is essential for conception.
Many may remember learning about mitochondria in biology class. Mitochondria produce energy in cells from oxygen and nutrients, playing a critical role in reproductive health. They provide the energy needed to create eggs and sperm, as well as the energy necessary for the early development of the embryo.
However, the energy production process within mitochondria generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to oxidative stress if produced excessively. ROS, though generally beneficial for immune function, can damage cells when produced in large quantities, thereby impairing mitochondrial function and resulting in reduced pregnancy rates.
When mitochondrial function is hindered by oxidative stress, it can disrupt the formation and motility of sperm, egg production, and embryo development, all of which are vital for conception. Supporting mitochondrial energy production and reducing oxidative stress are essential for improving pregnancy rates.
What Exactly is Reduced Coenzyme Q10?
Reduced coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) assists mitochondrial energy production within cells and eliminates excess ROS, the main source of oxidative stress, thereby supporting conception.
Coenzyme Q10 comes in two forms: oxidized and reduced. The oxidized form has long been used in medications and supplements for heart health, but once ingested, it must be converted to the reduced form to be active in the body. However, not everyone’s body efficiently converts it, and some is lost in the process.
Reduced coenzyme Q10, a newly developed form, works immediately without requiring conversion. This offers a more effective solution as it avoids energy loss and inefficiencies related to conversion from the oxidized form.
Why Reduced CoQ10 is Beneficial for Mitochondria
In summary, supporting mitochondrial energy production and controlling oxidative stress are key to enhancing fertility. Reduced coenzyme Q10 fulfills both these roles.
Reduced coenzyme Q10 has been scientifically demonstrated to improve pregnancy rates and is easily accessible as a supplement. Developed initially by the Japanese company Kaneka, this form of CoQ10 is widely available in Japan. For those seeking to boost fertility, trying reduced coenzyme Q10 may be a valuable option.