Varicocele: A Common Yet Treatable Cause of Infertility in Men
Infertility affects many couples worldwide, and in men, one of the most frequent causes is a condition called varicocele. Although it may sound unfamiliar, varicocele is surprisingly common, affecting about 15% of all men and up to 40% of men struggling with infertility.
The good news is that varicocele is highly treatable, and with the right medical care, many men can restore their fertility potential. Dr. Shawket has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating this condition to help men achieve healthier reproductive outcomes.
What is Varicocele?
A varicocele occurs when the veins inside the scrotum become enlarged, similar to varicose veins that can appear in the legs. These dilated veins disrupt blood flow and increase scrotal temperature, which negatively affects sperm production and quality.
Symptoms of Varicocele
In many cases, varicocele develops gradually and may not cause obvious symptoms. However, some men may experience:
- A dull or aching pain in the scrotum
- A feeling of heaviness or discomfort, especially after standing or physical activity
- Noticeable enlarged veins in the scrotum (often described as a “bag of worms”)
- Fertility issues due to poor sperm quality
How Varicocele Affects Fertility
Varicocele impacts sperm health in several ways:
- Reduced sperm count
- Lower motility (movement)
- Abnormal morphology (shape)
- Increased DNA damage due to heat and oxidative stress
These factors significantly decrease the chances of natural conception.
Diagnosis of Varicocele
Diagnosis is usually straightforward. Dr. Shawket performs a physical examination and may recommend a scrotal ultrasound for a detailed evaluation. This helps determine the severity of the varicocele and the best treatment approach.
Treatment Options for Varicocele
Not all varicoceles require treatment. However, if infertility, pain, or testicular atrophy (shrinkage) is present, intervention is recommended. Common treatment methods include:
- Varicocelectomy (surgical repair): A minimally invasive procedure to tie off the enlarged veins and restore proper blood flow.
- Percutaneous embolization: A non-surgical approach where a radiologist blocks the affected vein through a small catheter.
Both methods are safe, effective, and can significantly improve sperm parameters and fertility outcomes.
Prognosis and Fertility Outcomes
Many men experience improved sperm quality within months after treatment. For couples undergoing assisted reproductive techniques (like IVF), varicocele repair can also increase success rates.