What Is A Varicocele? Expert Shares How It Affects Male Fertility and What You Need To Know

When couples face difficulty conceiving, the conversation often focuses on women’s health. But in reality, male infertility is a major part of the picture. Fertility troubles can surprise any couple, often leading to questions and worries that weren’t there before. One condition that often goes unnoticed until fertility testing begins is varicocele. Many men may live with it for years without knowing, only to discover its link when they face challenges in starting a family.

What Exactly is a Varicocele?

Dr Priyanka Yadav, Fertility Specialist, Birla Fertility and IVF, Jaipur, explains, “Varicocele is one of those conditions that is often completely unrecognised until a couple starts looking into fertility. In simple terms, it is a swelling of the veins inside the scrotum, very similar to varicose veins in the legs.”

In simple words, a varicocele is a swelling of the veins inside the scrotum. It is very similar to varicose veins in the legs. These veins get enlarged because of blood pooling and poor circulation, mostly due to weak valves inside them. For some men, it may cause just a dragging sensation or mild discomfort. But for others, the impact can be much greater, especially on sperm production and overall fertility.

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How Varicocele Impacts Fertility

Varicocele is more common than most people think. Dr Yadav explains, “Research shows that varicocele impacts 15-20% of all males, and among men who struggle with infertility, the proportion rises to nearly 40%.”

The problem comes down to how sperm is made. The testicles need to be slightly cooler than the rest of the body to produce healthy sperm. When veins in the scrotum swell and blood pools, the temperature rises, even by just a half or one degree. That small change can lower sperm count, slow down their movement, and even cause DNA damage in sperm.

Not every man with varicocele faces trouble with fertility. Some have normal sperm results, but if issues show up in semen tests and a varicocele is found, treatment can make a real difference.

Diagnosing and Treating Varicocele

If a doctor suspects varicocele, tests like a physical exam or ultrasound can confirm it. You might feel a “bag of worms” in the scrotum or just mild pain, but often, there are no obvious symptoms. If treatment is needed, surgery is the standard option. Dr Yadav explains, “With modern microsurgical methods, surgeons can correct the swollen veins while minimising complications. Many men show improved semen quality within months, and natural conception rates increase as well.”

Are Hormones Affected?

Varicocele can sometimes lead to lower testosterone, causing symptoms like fatigue, low sex drive, or mood changes. Fixing the problem may help improve testosterone levels and boost overall wellbeing.

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Conclusion

Male infertility isn’t always untreatable. Varicocele is a condition that can be spotted, tackled, and often improved, giving couples more hope on their fertility journey. Dr Yadav’s main advice? “A detailed assessment helps doctors decide who will benefit from the treatment. For couples on a difficult fertility journey, that knowledge itself can be transformative.”