Male Interfility and Varicocele: What are the facts?

An expansion of the veins that are contained within the loose bag of skin that contains the testicles is known as a varicocele. These veins carry blood that is low in oxygen from the testicles to the rest of the body.

When your blood collects in the veins instead of flowing effectively out of the scrotum, the result is a condition known as a varicocele.

The development of varicoceles often begins in adolescence and continues with age. They might result in some level of annoyance or pain, but most of the time they do not create any symptoms or consequences.

Male factor infertility may be the result of a varicocele if the testicle does not grow normally, the generation of sperm is inadequate, or there are other factors involved. In order to address these issues, surgery designed to treat varicoceles may be considered.

In this article, you can find the effects, symptoms, and causes of varicocele on testicles and sperm. You can also get answers to your questions such as "does varicocele really cause infertility in men", and "do varicoceles prevent men from having kids".

What are the Symptoms of Varicocele?

Varicoceles often develop on the left side of your scrotum, and they frequently don't provide any noticeable symptoms or indicators.

The following items can be listed as varicocele symptoms:

• Severe pain: When standing or later in the day, you are more prone to experience a dull, agonizing ache or discomfort. Pain is typically alleviated by lying down.
• Growth in the area of the scrotum: If a varicocele is big enough, a mass that looks like a "bag of worms" could be seen above the testicle. This occurs when it has grown to a certain size. It's possible that a smaller varicocele can't be seen but can be detectable by touch.
• Testicles of varying sizes: It's possible that the damaged testicle can be smaller than the other one.

It is essential for males to get annual checkups for their well-being in order to monitor the growth and health of their testicles. It is imperative that you schedule these sessions and stick to them.

Having discomfort, swelling, or a mass in the scrotum might be caused by a variety of different medical disorders. Consult with Dr. Yaşar Başağa if you have any of these symptoms so that you can receive a prompt and correct diagnosis.

How is Varicocele Treated?

Not all men with varicocele need treatment. In the case of a male patient who is struggling with infertility, surgical correction of the varicocele may be included in the fertility treatment plan.

The following are some scenarios in which surgical intervention could be advised to you:

• A testicle that is developing more slowly than usual.
• Sperm count that is low or other abnormalities in the sperm (usually only tested in adults)
• Chronic pain that cannot be controlled by conventional pain medicines

Varicocele surgery is performed with the intention of closing off your diseased vein in order to reroute blood flow into your testicular veins that are healthy.

The following outcomes can be seen after varicocele treatment:

• It's possible that your afflicted testicle grow back to its normal size over time. It is possible for the testicle to develop enough during the adolescent years.
• There is a possibility that your sperm count may increase, and any abnormalities in the sperm can be fixed.
• Surgical procedures have the potential to boost fertility and increase your sperm quality for use in in vitro fertilization.

Is Varicocele Common?

Varicoceles affect around 1 of every 5 males. It is difficult to say which of these have difficulties having kids as a result of it they have. Varicoceles and reduced sperm mobility are found in around 40 percent of males who are examined for reproductive issues.

There is no correlation with any other birth abnormalities, racial or ethnic origin, or place of birth. Even though varicoceles are frequently identified as a cause of male factor infertility, research shows that the vast majority of men who have one do not experience reproductive issues.

Is it Necessary to Treat Asymptomatic Varicocele?

Varicoceles without symptoms are typically not treated. Many specialists do not feel that untreated varicoceles pose health risks. If you have concerns about fertility, a semen analysis can be performed to determine whether your varicocele is affecting sperm quality.

Is Every Lump on the Scrotum a Sign of Varicocele?

Male reproductive tract abnormalities may manifest as a bulge in the scrotum. Masses may not be cause for concern and may have minimal impact on your health. Or, they may be a symptom of another severe sickness.

It is of tremendous benefit to determine the cause of your bulk. Testicular cancer may be seen in specific masses. This would be the reason for the alarm and prompt action is required. It is imperative to consult a doctor if you discover a bulge on your testicle.

A specialist in male sexuality, you can get support from Dr. Yaşar Başağa, for varicocele and all your other problems. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us.