Varicocele — Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis
March 12, 2024
Varicocele is a common condition affecting males but often individuals are unaware about it or how it can affect fertility. It is a prevalent condition that can have a significant impact on male fertility and in this blog, we will explore varicocele in detail — from its causes and symptoms to its diagnosis and treatment options.
What is Varicocele?
Varicocele is a condition characterised by the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. These veins are responsible for draining blood from the testicles and when they become dilated or swollen, it can affect the quality and quantity of sperm produced. Varicoceles are most commonly found on the left side of the scrotum, although they can occur on both sides.
Causes of Varicocele
The exact cause of varicocele remains unknown. However, it is believed to be primarily caused by faulty valves within the veins that regulate blood flow. This leads to blood pooling in the veins, resulting in their enlargement. Other factors that may contribute to the development of varicocele include hormonal imbalances and genetic predisposition.
Symptoms of Varicocele
In many cases, varicoceles do not cause noticeable symptoms and are only discovered during routine physical examinations or fertility evaluations. However, some men may experience symptoms such as:
- A dull ache or discomfort in the scrotum.
- Swelling or bulging veins in the scrotum.
- Testicular atrophy (shrinkage) on the affected side.
- Fertility issues, including low sperm count or poor sperm quality.
Diagnosis of Varicocele
If you suspect that you may have a varicocele or are experiencing fertility issues, it is essential to consult with a fertility specialist. During the initial consultation, your fertility doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination. They may also recommend the following diagnostic tests:
- Doppler Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging test uses sound waves to create images of blood flow in the scrotum, allowing your fertility doctor to visualise any abnormalities in the veins.
- Semen Analysis: A semen analysis measures various parameters such as sperm count, motility and morphology. This test helps determine if varicocele is impacting sperm quality.
- Hormone Testing: Hormone levels, including testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), may be tested to assess overall reproductive health.
Treatment Options
The treatment for varicocele depends on several factors, including symptom severity, impact on fertility and personal preferences. The two primary treatment options are:
- Conservative Management: If the varicocele is not causing significant symptoms or affecting fertility, your fertility doctor may recommend conservative management strategies such as wearing supportive underwear or making lifestyle changes that promote overall testicular health.
- Surgical Intervention: If varicocele has significantly caused male infertility or severe discomfort, surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common procedure to treat varicoceles is called varicocelectomy, where the surgeon ligates or closes off the affected veins to redirect blood flow.
In conclusion, varicocele is a common condition affecting males and can significantly impact male infertility. Awareness of its existence and its effects on fertility is essential. Therefore, consulting with a fertility specialist is crucial for diagnosis and exploring treatment options. Whether through conservative management or surgical intervention, addressing varicocele can improve fertility outcomes for individuals experiencing symptoms or fertility issues related to male infertility.
At Apollo Fertility, we understand how challenging and emotionally taxing fertility issues can be. Our team of experienced fertility specialists is here to guide you through every step of your journey towards parenthood. Schedule a consultation with us to explore your options and find the right treatment path for you.
Varicoceles primarily affect male infertility by impacting sperm production and quality. Female infertility is influenced by various other factors such as ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes or hormonal imbalances.
While varicocele can impact fertility, it does not necessarily mean that natural conception is impossible. However, if you and your partner have been unsuccessful in conceiving after a year of trying, it is recommended to seek the guidance of a fertility specialist.
Since the exact cause of varicocele is still unknown, it is challenging to prevent its development. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet and avoiding excessive heat exposure to the scrotum, may help support overall testicular health.
