Ubiquinol and Fertility: New Review Highlights Mitochondrial Link to Reproductive Health

A recently peer-reviewed review published in Nutrients¹ revealed that Ubiquinol, the bioavailable antioxidant that generates adenosine triphosphate (ATP) energy in the mitochondria, is critical in supporting both male and female fertility.

How Do Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction Affect Reproductive Outcomes?

The paper connects oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction to declining reproductive outcomes, reflected by a reduction in egg and sperm quality; there are also complications associated with reproductive aging. According to the review’s authors, reproductive cells and early embryos are particularly sensitive to oxidative damage and have high energy demands, making mitochondrial a natural fit to supporting fertility.

It was also determined that being exposed to environmental pollutants and toxins can harm gametes (eggs and sperm), resulting in both a reduction in count and poor quality.

“Gametes and early embryos are among the most energy-dependent and oxidative stress-sensitive cells in human biology,” commented Dr. Emma J. Derbyshire, one of the review’s key researchers, who also acts as an independent consultant for Kaneka Nutrients Europe.² “The review explains that Ubiquinol plays a dual role in reproductive physiology, driving mitochondrial bioenergetics and providing potent antioxidant support at the cellular level. These functions are critical for egg quality, sperm motility, morphology and density, oocyte competence, and early embryo development, which are key determinants of successful conception.”

Why Is Infertility Increasing Globally?

Infertility is a condition whose prevalence rates is growing exponentially, as estimates from the World Health Organization³ predict that approximately one in every six people of reproductive age globally will experience it. Many factors can have an impact, including the oxidative stress that comes from obesity, smoking, and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

Can Ubiquinol Become Conditionally Essential During Reproductive Years?

Per the review’s authors, the body’s ability to naturally produce Ubiquinol decreases as one gets older, suggesting that it could become essential during the reproductive years. The specific ages at which the total body content of CoQ10 begins to decline hasn’t been conclusively determined, although previous research shows that this begins at the age 20.¹

The age in which people are beginning to have children also differs for males and females. For example, paternal age in the UK has increased from 30.7 years in 1990 to 33.4 years in 2017, as opposed to Italy, where it has increased from 34.2 to 35.5 years between 2000 and 2018.¹ For women, the live birth rate for those under 35 is approximately 43% but decreases to 6% in women over 42.5 years, due to a decline in oocyte quality and quantity with age, that’s connected to mitochondrial dysfunction.

Essentially, the internal production of Ubiquinol reaches a point in which it no longer meets cellular requirements.

As a result, the review describes a situation where Ubiquinol may move from being considered non-essential to conditionally essential, which could lead to exogenous sources.

Kaneka Nutrients Europe happens to be a supplier of bioidentical Ubiquinol.“The review provides a strong scientific rationale for fertility-focused formulations incorporating Ubiquinol as a differentiated, evidence-backed ingredient,” noted Filip Van hulle, the supplier’s general manager, in a press release.² “It also positions Ubiquinol beyond general wellness and into targeted reproductive health solutions, for females and males.”

How Does Ubiquinol Compare with CoQ10 for Fertility Support?

The authors also highlight Ubiquinol’s clinical and practical advantages over oxidized coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), citing its stronger bioavailability and effectiveness. Because it is the primary bioactive form, Ubiquinol is readily usable for mitochondrial energy generation and antioxidant protection, key factors for fertility-focused formulations where timing and cellular performance are critical.

What Do Researchers Recommend Next for Ubiquinol and Reproductive Health?

With these factors considered, the authors conclude that Ubiquinol could be regarded as conditionally essential in certain physiological or disease-related situations. Needs may be higher during preconception—especially if there are fertility issues—along with advancing maternal or paternal age throughout periods of increased reproductive demand. They also note that “ongoing research is needed to determine habitual Ubiquinol intakes and formulate benchmark levels of recommended intakes.”

References

1. Derbyshire, E.J.; Ostojic, S.M.; Alahmar, A.T. Ubiquinol in fertility and reproduction: A conditionally essential nutrient for critical early-life stages. Nutrients. 2026, 18 (1), 56. DOI: 10.3390/nu18010156

2. New Review Presents Ubiquinol Precision in Mitochondrial Nutrition for Fertility and Reproductive Health. January 27, 2026. Accessed February 10, 2026. Press release provided via email.

3. Infertility. World Health Organization. November 28, 2025.https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility (Accessed 2025-01-06)