What is Varicocele?

This is the name given to the swelling of the veins near the testicles which is a common cause of male infertility.

There are a set of veins in the groin which help to drain blood away from the testicles and scrotum. If these become infected they start to swell which restricts blood flow and causes an increase in temperature. And this affects sperm production.

Varicocele is a bit like having varicose veins in your testicles. This swelling takes place at the top of your scrotum and usually affects the left testicle although both can be affected.

Many men describe this as feeling like ‘a bag of worms’.

Treatment for this involves ‘varicocele embolisation’ – injecting a special substance into the swollen veins to block them off. Another option is that of surgery in which the swollen veins are tied off to re-direct blood flow into normal veins.

Male Infertility Guide Index:

• What are the causes of infertility in men?
• I do a lot of mountain biking can this affect my fertility?
• Is age an issue with male fertility?
• What causes a low sperm count?
• Are there any symptoms of male infertility?

• What is Varicocele?
• Can a reverse vasectomy help me to become fertile?
• What is Retrograde Ejaculation?
• What sperm disorders cause infertility?
• I recently had mumps is this likely to cause infertility?