Varicocele: Common Cause of Male Infertility & its Treatment

About 25% of male factors are responsible for infertility in Indian Couples. Male infertility has become a major concern in recent years. With it being considered a taboo topic in society, it was difficult to spread awareness regarding the risks associated with it. As the research and medical facilities evolved, professionals have analyzed critical factors that might contribute to infertility in males.

One most common reason for male infertility is Varicocele. It is common in adult males and may go unnoticed for years. But what is it? What are the symptoms of varicocele? Are there any treatment options available? What are the varicocele causes?

We will discuss everything about varicocele here to understand it briefly. You might have heard about varicose veins. That is a condition wherein the veins become enlarged and twisted. Veins in our legs are more likely to get varicose. Varicocele is in a similar condition but it concerns male genitals. Let’s learn more about it.

WHAT IS VARICOCELE?

Now that we know about varicose veins, it will be easier to understand Varicocele. In layman’s terms, varicocele refers to the enlargement of veins in the scrotum. The scrotum sac holds your testicles along with the veins and arteries that pass on blood to the reproductive glands. As a result, it directly contributes to infertility in males.

But how?

Varicocele can affect fertility in males in the following ways:

• Decrease sperm quality
• Low production of Sperms
• Shrinking or improper development of testicles

These are some major factors that are developed by varicocele and result in male infertility. It is said to be a common occurrence in adult males. Statistically speaking, about 15% of males suffer from varicocele. They are more often found in young male adults in the age group of 15-25 years.

But, what are its causes?

CAUSES OF VARICOCELE

While there has not been a definite varicocele cause, it is assumed that problems with blood flow in the spermatic cord can be its major cause. The spermatic cord delivers blood to and from your testicles. If due to any fault in the valves, blood flow is improper: it can result in varicocele.

A young adult can develop varicocele during puberty and mostly in the left scrotum. It can be a result of sudden growth in teen males. While it can occur on both sides of the scrotum but that is a rare condition. You can easily miss out on varicocele unless it has been diagnosed by your doctor or by doing self examination.

That brings us to an important question, How do I know if I have Varicocele?

VARICOCELE SYMPTOMS

As discussed above, varicocele can easily go unnoticed by a layman. Many times, they don’t hurt. That’s why it's important to get your routine checkups scheduled in regular intervals. Look out for the following symptoms:

• The pain may worsen as the day passes.
• You might notice varying discomfort from sharp to dull.
• Increase in pain due to physical exertion.
• Standing for long periods can contribute to intense pain.
• You will feel relieved when you lie on your back.

Varicocele pain is most of the time not felt. But if it happens, consult an expert immediately. As the time progresses, varicocele enlarges and can be easily noticed when you stand. Watch out to get it diagnosed at its initial stage.

VARICOCELE TREATMENT

A varicocele is a condition where the veins in the scrotum become enlarged, similar to varicose veins that can occur in the legs. While it often doesn't require treatment, varicocele can cause pain or interfere with fertility. If you notice symptoms like testicle size differences, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.

Diagnosis of Varicocele: To diagnose varicocele, your doctor will conduct a thorough physical exam and may use tests like:

• Valsalva maneuver to detect smaller varicoceles.
• Scrotal ultrasound for detailed analysis. Based on the results, varicoceles are classified into grades (Grade 0 to Grade 3), with Grade 3 being the most severe.

Treatment Options:

1. Medications: Pain relief medications may be prescribed to manage discomfort caused by varicocele.

2. Microsurgical Varicocelectomy: This surgery involves tying off the enlarged or twisted veins to restore normal blood flow. It’s a common treatment for improving fertility and relieving pain.

3. Laparoscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive procedure involves a small incision in the abdomen, through which tiny instruments are used to repair the veins. Though effective, it has a higher recurrence rate and potential side effects.

4. Percutaneous Embolization: A radiologist uses a small incision to insert a tube and guide instruments to treat varicocele. A coil or balloon is inserted to block the enlarged veins and restore proper blood flow. This procedure also carries a high recurrence rate and side effects.

Post-Surgery Recovery:

Varicocele surgery can improve sperm production and quality. Recovery time is typically 1-2 days in the hospital, with 2 weeks of rest and minimal activity afterward. After a few months, sperm quality is reassessed to evaluate the surgery’s success.

Conclusion:

Varicocele is generally not dangerous and is treatable with surgery or other medical interventions. Early diagnosis is key to improving fertility chances and sperm quality. If you notice an increase in scrotal mass or experience pain, consult your doctor for proper evaluation and treatment options.