Can Coenzyme Q10 Improve Sperm Count and Motility?

male doctor talking with patient

Updated by the Progyny Clinical Team — August 2025.

What is coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)?

CoQ10 is a vitamin-like substance found in body cells, especially in the heart, kidney, liver, and pancreas. It may promote health and treat some diseases. CoQ10 functions as an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Decreased sperm count and motility (movement) are two main causes of infertility in people with testes (commonly referred to as male infertility).

There’s a noteworthy supplement that may make a difference and may be recommended by your reproductive endocrinologist or urologist. Some studies have found that supplements of CoQ10 can help improve sperm count and motility.

How does CoQ10 affect sperm count and motility?

A research study combining the results of multiple studies (meta-analysis and systematic review study) was published in January 2025. It examined the data from studies that randomly assigned patients to CoQ10 supplementation or placebo therapy.

Of the eight studies with a total of about 900 patients, they found that CoQ10 treatment increased sperm counts, sperm motility, and amount of normally formed sperm. They stated that these results support the view that CoQ10 is beneficial. However, more well-designed, larger studies are still needed to confirm how helpful CoQ10 really is.

While studies have shown some improvement in sperm parameters, more data is needed to understand if CoQ10 supplementation improves live birth rates. Sperm parameters include sperm concentration, movement, shape, and volume.

Are CoQ10 supplements safe?

CoQ10 is sold in the United States as a dietary supplement. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate dietary supplements in the same way that it controls medications, so their safety may not be tested as extensively.

What are the side effects?

CoQ10 is generally well tolerated, but some patients have minor side effects:

  • Nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or loose stools
  • Irritability, headaches, fatigue, or insomnia
  • Elevated liver enzymes (in patients taking 300 milligrams daily)

Given the improvement in overall semen analysis results after being treated with CoQ10, speak with your healthcare provider before you start taking a supplement. You can discuss any potential CoQ10 benefits in improving your results and if they outweigh the potential risks and side effects.

If you have questions or concerns, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.

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