🩺What is varicocele? One of the common causes of male infertility
Among the diseases affecting men's reproductive health, varicocele is one of the most common problems. Many men only find out about this disease when difficulties arise in having children. In fact, if varicocele is detected early and treated correctly, its negative consequences can be minimized.
What is varicocele?
What does varicocele mean?
This is a disease characterized by the dilation of the veins around the testicle. In a normal state, valves in the veins ensure that blood flows toward the heart. When this mechanism is impaired, blood accumulates in the vessels and the veins dilate.
Varicocele often occurs in the left testicle because the vein on the left side is anatomically more prone to impaired blood circulation.
What causes varicocele?
What causes varicocele?
Experts believe that the main cause is the insufficient functioning of the valves in the testicular veins. As a result, blood flows backward, accumulates in the vessels, and leads to their dilation.
The following factors can also influence the development of the disease:
- congenital weakness of venous valves;
- impaired blood circulation;
- increased pressure in the veins;
- anatomical features;
- hereditary predisposition.
Symptoms of varicocele you should know
The disease may not show any signs at first. For this reason, many men go a long time without noticing that a problem exists.
Symptoms of varicocele
The following signs may be observed:
- pain or a feeling of heaviness in the testicular area;
- discomfort that increases after standing for a long time;
- the left testicle hanging lower or appearing larger;
- a condition resembling a "bag of worms" in the scrotum;
- pain increasing after physical activity.
In some cases, varicocele is only detected during an infertility examination.
How does varicocele affect male reproductive health?
Why is varicocele considered dangerous?
Varicocele disrupts blood circulation in the testicles. This can lead to an increase in testicular temperature and a deterioration in sperm production. As a result:
- sperm count decreases;
- their motility decreases;
- sperm quality worsens;
- male infertility may develop.
Studies show that a significant portion of men with reproductive problems are diagnosed with varicocele.
How is varicocele detected?
Diagnostic methods
A urologist or andrologist may recommend the following examinations:
- physical examination;
- ultrasound (US) examination of the testicles;
- Doppler examination;
- spermogram;
- hormonal tests if necessary.
Varicocele surgery — an effective solution
Modern treatment methods
If varicocele causes pain or negatively affects spermogram results, surgical treatment may be recommended.
Today, one of the most effective methods is microsurgical varicocele surgery. This method:
- is performed through a small incision;
- preserves healthy vessels to the maximum extent;
- reduces the risk of recurrence;
- shortens the recovery period.
What to expect after surgery?
In many patients, after surgery:
- pain decreases;
- spermogram indicators improve;
- reproductive potential increases;
- the chance of becoming a father increases.
When should you see a doctor?
It is recommended to book an appointment with a urologist or andrologist in the following cases:
- if there is pain in the testicular area;
- if one of the testicles appears larger or hangs lower;
- if you have been unable to have children for a long time;
- if spermogram results are poor;
- if you notice dilated veins in the scrotum.
Conclusion
Varicocele - is a common and treatable disease in men. Varicocele often develops gradually and may not show symptoms at first. Therefore, it is important not to be indifferent to reproductive health and to undergo regular check-ups.
🌿 A healthy man is the foundation of a healthy family. If you have symptoms characteristic of varicocele, do not waste time and consult a specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment help preserve the chance of becoming a father in the future.
📨 Source: Telegram: @eko_iksi_clinic