Optimal Amniotic CoQ10 Supports Healthy Delivery

In a new study, researchers discovered that maternal and fetal coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) may be important in healthy deliveries. CoQ10 is an antioxidant compound that is important in the synthesis of cellular energy.

The subjects in this study included 72 women being admitted to a healthcare facility for labor and delivery. The women were evaluated for plasma CoQ10 levels as well as CoQ10 levels in the amniotic fluid. These levels were compared between the women that carried the fetus longer than 37 weeks gestation to the women that delivered the infant earlier than 37 weeks gestation.

The results of the study showed that the average maternal plasma CoQ10 levels did not differ between the women. Amniotic CoQ10 levels were nearly 10-fold lower than the plasma CoQ10 levels. Interestingly, CoQ10 levels in the amniotic fluid were significantly lower in the women that delivered earlier than expected compared to the women that delivered after 37 weeks gestation.

The study authors stated that this is the first study to assess CoQ10 levels in amniotic fluid during pregnancy and showed that levels were significantly lower among those women delivering earlier than expected, and additional research is warranted in this regard.

Reference:

Teran E, Racines-Orbe M, Toapanta J, Valdivieso L, Vega Z, Vivero S, Moya W, Chedraui P, Perez-Lopez FR. Maternal plasma and amniotic fluid coenzyme Q10 levels in preterm and term gestations: a pilot study. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2011 Mar;283 Suppl 1:67-71.