What is a Varicocele, and how does it affect Male Fertility?

Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology | July 02, 2024

Varicocele is a relatively common condition, affecting roughly 15% of men, where the veins of the scrotum start bulging out, resembling varicose veins that impact the legs. If you wonder what is varicocele, and if it has an impact on fertility, the answer is yes. Varicocele is one of the causes behind male infertility, although it is not necessary that it lead to male infertility.

Varicoceles usually develop as a consequence of poor functioning of the valves that are found in the veins in this region, and in this article we will learn more about them in detail.

Understanding Varicocele

The scrotum is the part of the body that contains the testicles. When the veins of this loose bag of skin enlarge, it is known as varicocele. It is known to cause infertility among men; however, it is one of the things that can potentially cause it, depending upon the grade and many other variables. The exact cause behind its occurrence is not clearly known; however, varicocele can be treated only through surgery such as microsurgical Varicocele repair or embolization. Varicocele usually develops over a period of time and can impact adolescents as well.

Grades of Varicocele

Varicocele occurs in three clinical Varicocele grades commonly: grade 1, grade 2, and grade 3. Each of these is more severe than the previous, presenting more adverse symptoms and challenges for the patient. The varicocele grade 1 effects are the least severe and can often go unnoticed. Its detection usually requires using a technique known as the Valsalva maneuver. Grade 2 varicocele is one level up, refers to when the enlargement is sized moderately, and can be detected by touch. Grade 3 is the most severely enlarged size of veins and does not need any special technique for detection. Such enlargement is very clearly visible through the skin of the scrotum.

Each of these grades of varicocele causes a lot of pain and discomfort to the patient, which can be observed in the form of very dull pains that increase with physical activity or even if one has been standing up for too long. Apart from this, issues such as atrophy of the testicles, which refers to the shrinkage of the testicles and their becoming soft, can be experienced by certain patients as well. This happens because the sperm gets damaged, which leads to the production of tubules. Lastly, imbalance of the hormones is one of the common varicocele side effects that men can experience if they have any of the grades of varicocele.

Depending on the grade and other factors, the treatment options for varicoceles can vary for every patient. While some may be recommended medication to overcome the pain and discomfort, others may need to undergo a surgical procedure. Similarly, people for whom varicoceles have been detected early can also be recommended some changes in lifestyle, which can help improve the condition. In such cases, modifications such as not standing for too long, weightlifting, and other measures may be recommended, along with recommendations on the kind of underwear to wear.

Relation to Infertility

Varicoceles is known to lead to infertility among men who experience it. Although it is not absolute infertility and can be improved or prevented to some degree depending upon the particular variables of each case and the grade of varicoceles, there will be an impact on normal fertility among men. Varicocele infertility can occur because of any of the following impacts of the ailment:

• Varicoceles can cause the temperature of the scrotum to rise significantly, which is a known reason behind the decreased production of sperm in the testicles. Even if it does not hamper production of the sperm, it can impair their functioning, thereby leading to infertility.
• Varicoceles can also lead to a condition within the testicles known as oxidative stress. As a result, the level of reactive oxygen species in the testes is increased, which in turn damages the sperm DNA, leading to infertility.
• Another way in which varicoceles cause infertility in men is by impairing the flow of blood in the testicles, which in turn leads to a decrease in the oxygen levels within the testicular tissue. This, in turn, impacts the production of sperm, leading to infertility.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with varicocele, it is advisable that you consult with a professional at AINU at the earliest. Our expert professionals can help you overcome the issues associated with varicocele based on your particular needs. With us, you can prevent the harmful effects of varicocele and live a full life, worry-free.

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