Varicocele and Infertility

Varicocele refers to the abnormally enlarges veins in the scrotum. Varicoceles are a common reason behind abnormal semen analysis, low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, and abnormal sperm structure, which results in infertility.

Varicocele rarely produces any symptoms. It goes unnoticed most of the time until noticed during a self-exam or routine physical exam by the doctor. Rarely, varicocele might cause pain, and the pain may:

• Range from sharp to dull uneasiness
• Deteriorate over a day
• Increase with standing or heavy work, particularly over an extended duration
• Be relieved while lying in the back position

Gradually, varicoceles may widen and become more visible. The condition may result in a swollen testicle, mainly on the left side.

Varicocele forms when there is an improper blood flow in the valves inside the spermatic cord’s veins. Then blood backs up, resulting in swelling and widening of the veins. Varicoceles often develop during puberty. Generally, it arises on the left side due to the position of the left testicular vein.

Varicoceles might raise the temperature around the testicle, which affects sperm formation, movement, and function. Also, it can generate inadequate blood supply in the testis.

Varicocele is treated when males are experiencing pain or discomfort.

Varicocelectomy is a surgical process to correct a varicocele. In this process, the swollen veins are tied off. Then the collected blood is forwarded to the healthy veins. If the sperm parameters (number, motility, or morphology) are impaired, IVF/ICSI is the treatment option to help the couple to get pregnant.