Varicocele
Varicocele is a swelling or lump in the scrotum (the pouch of skin that holds your testicles), caused by enlargement of the veins. Many men describe varicocele as a “bag of worms” and experience dull aching pain. Varicocele can often be harmless, but it’s always recommended to speak to a medical professional.
What is Varicocele?
A varicocele is when the veins in your scrotum become enlarged causing a swelling or lump. If you notice a swelling or lump in your scrotum it should be taken seriously, and you should consult a doctor. The vast majority of swellings turn out to be nothing serious, however testicular cancer is more common in younger men.
What are the Symptoms of Varicocele?
A varicocele may present as swelling (sometimes described as a ‘bag of worms’) or dull aching discomfort. This pain may be worse when you are standing for long periods, or straining or during sporting activities.
The majority of varicoceles are left sided due to different drainage of the veins from the testicle on the right and left. If you notice swelling, pain or discomfort speak to your doctor.
What Causes Varicocele?
A varicocele is an abnormality of the veins that take blood away from the testicle. Although the veins are seen or are palpable in the scrotum the underlying problem is often higher up in the spermatic vein draining up towards the kidney. Varicocele can be caused by:
- Varicose veins affecting the testicular veins – is a common benign (non-cancerous) swelling usually on the left side of the scrotum.
- Incompetence of vein valves – this common underlying problem is where the valves higher up in the veins, where they run up towards the kidney, allow blood to reflux and pool down into the scrotal veins. Instead of flowing back up towards the kidney, the blood pools leading to distension, swelling and discomfort.
How is Varicocele Diagnosed
If you notice swelling, abnormal lumps and bumps in your scrotum speak to your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to Dr. Crowe or you can request an ultrasound without a referral. An ultrasound scan can provide reassurance that there is not a serious problem.
An ultrasound scan can assess the diameters of the veins and more importantly the blood flow and any evidence of reflux or reverse flow in the veins. Dr. Crowe would normally see you for an initial ultrasound and the findings are discussed with you at the time of the scan.
Complications of Varicocele
Many men ask if varicocele is dangerous, while the cause of varicocele is often harmless it’s always recommended you should speak to a medical professional if you notice symptoms. Varicocele causes pain and can affect male fertility. NICE states that approximately 20% of men diagnosed with varicocele will have fertility problems.
Dr. Crowe works with specialist urologists and fertility specialists in investigation and treatment of male infertility. Infertility is frequently a multifactorial problem with contributory factors from both the female and male partners. Similarly there may be multiple contributory factors to male infertility resulting in either a low sperm count or in poor quality sperm with reduced motility or abnormal sperm forms.
Treatment Options for Varicocele
How varicocele is treated depends on how severe it is. Occasionally no treatment is necessary but surgery may be recommended. Dr Paul Crowe specialises in varicocele embolisation, a minimally invasive treatment that relieves swelling in testicles.
FAQs
Varicocele Frequently Asked Questions
Varicoceles are quite common, affecting around 15 in every 100 people. If you experience pain, swelling or notice a lump in your testicle speak to your doctor.
While varicoceles typically start to develop during puberty, men of all ages can get them. If a varicocele suddenly develops and you notice new symptoms speak to your GP. You can also request an ultrasound scan appointment with Dr Crowe.
No stress is not considered a cause of varicocele. Varicocele can be caused by conditions like cysts, infections or issues with valves in the veins.
The pain caused by varicocele is described as a dull aching discomfort. You may find the sensation gets worse during exercise, when you are straining or standing for long periods.
Varicoceles isn’t thought to be a common cause of erectile dysfunction. However, if you are experiencing testicular pain or feeling anxious about your symptoms this can affect how you get and maintain an erection. If you are feeling worried, notice a lump or experience pain speak to your doctor.
Generally, varicocele will not go away on its own. Instead treatment is needed to ensure a varicocele goes away. Dr Paul Crowe performs varicocele embolisations which are a minimally invasive procedure that reduces the swelling associated with varicocele.
There is a higher incidence of varicocele in men with subfertility (a reduced ability to conceive naturally). Although not a serious medical problem varicoceles can be associated with a reduced sperm count and quality. There are several theories as to why there is an association of varicocele and fertility problems including the heating effect of the distended veins on the testicle impacting on sperm production.
Infertility is frequently a multifactorial problem with contributory factors from both the female and male partners. Similarly there may be multiple contributory factors to male infertility such as varicocele. These factors result in either a low sperm count or in poor quality sperm with reduced motility or abnormal sperm forms.
Dr. Crowe works with specialist urologists and fertility specialists in the investigation and treatment of male infertility.