Varicocele

What is a varicocele?

A varicocele is a collection of varicose veins within the scrotum.

Each testicle is suspended from the abdomen by the spermatic cord. This is made up of arteries, veins, nerves and the tubes that transport sperm from the testicles to the penis.

In some men, the veins in the spermatic cord become slack and dilate, or develop balloon-like varicose veins. The result is a collection of soft, swollen wiggly veins - a varicocele.

Symptoms

Although about one in seven men has a varicocele, many go through life unaware of it because it doesn't often cause any symptoms and is generally harmless.

When it does, men experience an aching feeling at the top of the scrotum that attracts their attention. Or, when touched, the scrotum may feel like a 'bag of worms'.

Varicoceles are more common on the left side than the right because the blood vessels are organised in such a way that the pressure of blood on this side is greater.

In the past, varicoceles have been associated with low sperm counts and male infertility. However, the research isn't very reliable and it's not 100 per cent clear whether they cause a reduction in sperm count.

Nevertheless, there are plenty of stories of couples conceiving after the man has had his varicoceles removed.

Treatment and recovery

Varicoceles aren't dangerous, so in general it isn't necessary to treat them.

If they're uncomfortable, an athletic support may help, as can taking anti-inflammatory medication.

When this isn't enough, they can be removed with a minor operation, which is done under local anaesthetic and entails injecting the veins with a sclerosant to block them.