CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that supports energy production and helps protect cells from oxidative stress, functions that are especially important for organs like the heart and muscles. For women, this makes it especially valuable at every stage of life, from egg quality and fertility in the reproductive years to energy, skin, and heart support during perimenopause and beyond. In this guide, we explore the research-backed benefits of CoQ10 for women and how it can be used to support overall wellbeing.
What Is CoQ10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like compound found in every cell of the body. It plays a critical role in producing energy in the mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of cells, and acts as a potent antioxidant that protects against oxidative damage.
Our natural levels of CoQ10 peak in early adulthood and decline with age. This decline is often linked to fatigue, slower recovery, and an increased need for cellular repair. CoQ10 can also be depleted by certain medications, including statins and some hormonal therapies.
Why Might Women Benefit from CoQ10?
While CoQ10 is beneficial for everyone, women may experience specific benefits due to its effects on energy metabolism, reproductive health, skin, and cardiovascular function. These areas are often impacted during different life phases, including hormonal transitions.
1. CoQ10 and Female Fertility
CoQ10 has been studied for its role in supporting egg quality and ovarian function. As women age, mitochondrial function in the ovaries declines, affecting both egg quality and fertility outcomes. CoQ10 supports the mitochondria within egg cells and may help improve reproductive potential, particularly in women over 35 [1].
2. CoQ10 and Energy Support
CoQ10 is essential for cellular energy production. Women experiencing chronic fatigue, PMS-related fatigue, or hormonal transitions like perimenopause often report low energy levels. Supplementing with CoQ10 may help support better energy metabolism at the cellular level [2].
3. CoQ10 and Heart Health
Women’s risk of cardiovascular disease increases after menopause, when oestrogen’s protective effects decline. CoQ10 may help maintain mitochondrial and antioxidant function, which are both important in cardiovascular health. It’s also commonly used alongside statins to help maintain CoQ10 levels, which statins are known to deplete [3]. More on CoQ10 and heart health here.
4. CoQ10 and Skin Ageing
Oxidative stress plays a key role in skin ageing. CoQ10 helps protect skin cells from free radical damage and supports energy production in skin tissue. Some studies suggest that CoQ10 supplementation may reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity [4].
What CoQ10 Form and Dose Should Women Look For?
CoQ10 is available in two forms:
- Ubiquinone: The standard form, which the body must convert
- Ubiquinol: The active, more easily absorbed form, especially beneficial for women
For general health, doses between 100–200 mg per day are common. Women taking statins or managing age-related concerns may benefit from higher doses, but it’s best to consult a practitioner.
Should You Take CoQ10?
Women of all ages may benefit from CoQ10, particularly if experiencing low energy, skin ageing, or reproductive challenges. It’s especially helpful for:
- Women over 35 trying to conceive
- Those in perimenopause or menopause
- Anyone experiencing fatigue or brain fog
- Women on statin medication
- Anyone looking to support their natural energy and vitality
As always, speak to a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you’re taking medication, are pregnant, or undergoing fertility treatment.
What to Look for in a Supplement
If you’re looking to support your energy, skin or fertility, Napiers offers Japanese Energy CoQ10, which contains Kaneka Ubiquinol, the highly bioavailable form of CoQ10 used in many clinical studies. It supports normal energy-yielding metabolism and protection from oxidative stress.
FAQs: CoQ10 for Women
Should women take CoQ10 daily?
CoQ10 is widely used as a daily supplement. It may support energy levels and antioxidant protection, both of which contribute to overall cellular and reproductive health.
Does CoQ10 help with fertility?
CoQ10 may support egg quality by improving mitochondrial function, especially in women over 35 or those going through IVF.
Is CoQ10 good for menopause?
CoQ10 may support energy levels and antioxidant protection—important functions for cardiovascular and cellular health, especially in midlife.
Is ubiquinol better than ubiquinone?
Ubiquinol is the active form of CoQ10 and is more easily absorbed, making it ideal for women over 40 or those with digestive issues.
Can CoQ10 help with skin health?
Some studies suggest CoQ10 may reduce signs of ageing and support skin elasticity by reducing oxidative stress at the cellular level.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
References
- Ben-Meir, A., Burstein, E., Borrego-Alvarez, A., et al. (2015). Coenzyme Q10 restores oocyte mitochondrial function and fertility during reproductive aging. PubMed
- Y Rabanal-Ruiz, E Llanos-González, F J Alcain et al. (2021). The Use of Coenzyme Q10 in Cardiovascular Diseases. PubMed.
- B Sood, P Patel, M Keenaghan. (2024). Coenzyme Q10. PubMed
- K Žmitek, T Pogačnik, L Mervic, J Žmitek, IPravst etal. (2015). The effect of dietary intake of coenzyme Q10 on skin parameters and condition. PubMed
